“Our athletes have represented our country in world and European championships with dignity. Of the international competitions, I would like to specifically mention the Fifth Islamic Solidarity Games. As you know, Azerbaijan finished first in the teams competition at the Islamic Solidarity Games held in Baku five years ago. This was a historic victory. This time in Konya, Turkiye, our athletes were in fourth place among 56 countries, winning a total of 99 medals. This once again confirms the successes Azerbaijan has achieved in the field of sports. Because the competition in the Islamic Solidarity Games was very tough. Almost all teams fielded their top athletes. Winning the fourth place in such a close struggle is certainly a great victory, our great achievement.

“We were watching the Games and, unfortunately, we have to note that the injustice of referees deprived us of several medals. Nevertheless, this great achievement – I consider it a victory – once again confirms the strength of Azerbaijani sport and further shows that the development of sport in Azerbaijan is consistent. Many of our athletes who participated in the Baku Games five years ago did not participate in the Islamic Solidarity Games in Konya. Generations change, but our success remains constant, and this draws our attention to one important issue. In other words, here too we are seeing growth and success. As generations replace each other, the experience of our outstanding athletes seems to be handed over to younger athletes. Young athletes growing up in Azerbaijan will keep our sporting fame high, and this should be a constant process,” the President said.