The Faculty of International Relations and Economics at Baku State University (BSU), in cooperation with the Student and Volunteer Affairs Department of the Azerbaijan Sports Academy, organised a training session titled “Sports Diplomacy and Strategic Communication”.

The event was held to mark the 35th anniversary of the Faculty of International Relations and Economics.

The first session, dedicated to sports diplomacy, was delivered by Eldar Jafarov, Associate Professor at the Department of International Relations. He highlighted the growing role of sport as a soft power instrument in global politics, emphasising its importance in promoting countries’ foreign policy, bringing nations together and fostering international cooperation. He also stressed the need for qualified professionals capable of representing Azerbaijan at international sporting events and platforms.

The training focused on international sports representation, media relations, crisis communication and diplomatic protocol.

The programme continued with interactive discussions led by Bahar Huseyn, Lecturer at the Department of Diplomacy and Contemporary Integration Processes, and Ayten Gurbanova, Lecturer at the Department of International Relations. Through practical simulations, debates and panel discussions, participants developed skills in crisis management, professional communication and effective media engagement.