In the spotlight today is the esteemed president of the International Eurasia Press Fund, Mr. Umud Mirzayev, as he marks his 63rd birthday.

On this momentous occasion, the IEPF and the entire Eurasia Diary collective extend warm congratulations to Mr. Umud, conveying heartfelt wishes for robust health and even greater triumphs in advancing civil society.

Born on February 1, 1961, in the Ashaghi Abdurrahmanli village of Fuzuli district, Umud Mirzayev embarked on an extraordinary journey. He enrolled in the poetry department of the Institute of Literature named after M. Gorky in Moscow in 1982, culminating his academic journey in 1987. From 1987 to 1992, he served as the head of the department of science, journalism, and letters at the Literature and Art newspaper.

A prominent figure, Umud Mirzayev is not only the founder but also the president of the International Eurasia Press Fund (IEPF), a distinguished organization in operation since 1992. Headquartered in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, the IEPF holds a significant position as a member of the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations with main advisory status.

Additionally, Mr. Mirzayev plays pivotal roles as a member of the Azerbaijan Press Council, the Azerbaijan Writers' Union, and the Board of Directors of the National Forum of Non-Governmental Organizations. Since 2021, he has assumed the role of chairman of the Public Council under the Mine Action Agency of The Republic of Azerbaijan (ANAMA).

His global influence extends to his tenure as a board member of the International Press Institute (IPI) from 2012 to 2016. From 2013-2016, he held a prestigious position on the Supreme Council of the International Peace Bureau, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, representing 18 West Asian countries.

Mr. Umud Mirzayev is not just a leader; he is a visionary author of programs and numerous events collaborating with various international organizations. His initiatives are aimed at unveiling the truth about Azerbaijan to the world, conveying our country's rich history, culture, national moral values, and complexities of conflicts to diverse and wider audiences.

Under his steadfast leadership, the IEPF has dedicated three decades to impactful social-humanitarian projects. These projects have specifically focused on the war-affected and liberated regions, addressing the needs of refugees and internally displaced persons. Additionally, Mr. Mirzayev's efforts have been instrumental in organizing visits of foreign diplomats, international journalists, and students to the conflict zones, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and resilience of these areas.

Today, as we celebrate the birthday of a remarkable individual, let us applaud Mr. Umud Mirzayev for his unwavering commitment to the betterment of society, both locally and globally. May this day be a reflection of the countless lives he has touched and the positive impact he continues to make.

Once again Happy Birthday, Mr. Umud Mirzayev!