Azerbaijani carpets take center stage in Moldova

An exhibition titled “Harmony of Beauty. The Timeless Elegance of Azerbaijani Carpets”, celebrating the traditional art of Azerbaijani carpet weaving—one of the most refined expressions of the region's cultural heritage—opened on Sunday at the National Museum of History of Moldova in Chisinau.

Organized by the National Museum of History of Moldova in collaboration with Azerkhalcha OJSC and the Azerbaijani Embassy in Moldova, the event showcases Azerbaijan's textile heritage, highlighting the diversity of decorative motifs and the unique manufacturing techniques specific to each region.

The opening ceremony brought together Moldovan officials, parliamentarians, diplomats, diaspora activists, and local residents.

Addressing the event, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Moldova Ulvi Bakhshaliyev noted that Azerbaijani carpets are among the greatest treasures of world culture. He emphasized that carpet weaving is one of the oldest forms of Azerbaijani artistic craftsmanship and has been recognized by UNESCO as an element of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The ambassador also underscored the meticulous care and attention given by President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva to preserving and promoting Azerbaijani carpet weaving, including the establishment of the National Carpet Museum in Baku.

In his remarks, Sergiu Prodan, Moldova’s Minister of Culture, described the exhibition as a testament to the sincere and promising cultural dialogue between the two countries, noting that culture remains the most enduring bridge between peoples.

Emin Mammadov, Chairman of the Board of Azerkhalcha OJSC, highlighted the importance of cultural exchange and provided an overview of Azerkhalcha’s century-old history, noting its ongoing mission to develop and promote Azerbaijani carpet weaving.

Other speakers included Eugen Sava, Director of Moldova’s National Museum of History, and Vitalie Jacot, Member of the Moldovan Parliament and head of the Moldova-Azerbaijan friendship group.

As part of the ceremony, an Azerbaijani national carpet was presented to the National Museum of History of Moldova. The event also featured a concert program.