Azerbaijan is marking the 136th anniversary of National Press Day. The
first Azerbaijani paper, Ekinchi, was published by Gasan bek Zardabi
on July 22, 1875. The day was established after Azerbaijani
Independence in 1991.
The paper played an important role in self-realization of the
Azerbaijani nation in the 19th and 20th centuries. The national press
was on a mission for a free and democratic press, respect for ideas,
informing society and promoting pluralism and tolerance.
The development of the press in Azerbaijan continues. The country
publishes numerous papers and magazines and the Internet is actively
used. Hundreds of journalists attend training organized by
international organizations.
The Azerbaijani Press Council has prevented media fragmentation and
the Professional Code of Journalists has improved their work.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree marking the 135th
anniversary of National Press on June 11, 2010.
