Renowned Nobel Peace Prize laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus recently visited the Baku office of the International Eurasia Press Fund (IEPF), sparking discussions and collaborations aimed at fostering positive change.
The meeting, attended by members of the Board of Trustees, engaged with IEPF President Umud Mirzayev and other board members. The focus was on exploring avenues for cooperation, including the expansion of "3 zero" clubs in Azerbaijan and the establishment of a "Yunus Social Business Center" at Karabakh University.
Mr. Mirzayev highlighted IEPF's ongoing efforts, particularly in addressing the mine problem in Karabakh and facilitating reconstruction efforts post-conflict. The meeting also touched upon plans for regional "3 zero" club meetings and cooperation within COP29.
The visit extended beyond the confines of the IEPF office, as Yunus inaugurated the Yunus Social Business Center at Azerbaijan University of Economics (UNEC), marking a significant milestone in collaborative endeavors between IEPF, Yunus Social Business Center, and UNEC.
The opening ceremony saw Yunus, alongside distinguished guests including ANAS President Isa Habibbayli and UNEC Rector Adalat Muradov, cutting the ribbon to commence operations at the center. Yunus delivered the first lecture, underscoring the importance of social business.
Subsequently, Yunus embarked on a tour of the Ismailiyya building, guided by ANAS President Habibbayli, to learn about the rich history and activities of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences. This cultural exchange was marked by presentations of national gifts, symbolizing the bonds formed during Yunus's visit.
Yunus's visit, part of his engagement in the 11th Global Baku Forum, builds upon his previous interactions with Azerbaijan, dating back to 2016 when he was first invited by IEPF. During this visit, he met with President Ilham Aliyev and various government officials, further solidifying collaborative efforts and promoting his groundbreaking work in social business.
In 2016, Yunus's initiatives were further bolstered through the translation and printing of his book "The Banker of the Poor" by IEPF, emphasizing the enduring partnership between Yunus and Azerbaijan in fostering positive societal change.
