Indian Ambassador to Azerbaijan Abhay Kumar visited the southern regions of Lankaran and Lerik to boost cooperation in culture, wellness, agriculture and environmental conservation, according to a statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Azerbaijan.
During his visit to Lankaran, Kumar toured the Museum of History and Local Lore and met its director, Leyla Majidova. He was briefed on the region’s rich cultural heritage and the museum’s efforts to preserve local history and traditions.
The Ambassador also visited the Yenee Wellness Center, where he held discussions with Chief Doctor Dr Emil Hidayatli on promoting Ayurveda, yoga and holistic wellness practices in Azerbaijan. Hidayatli highlighted the benefits of yoga and encouraged people to adopt the practice ahead of the International Day of Yoga.
Kumar later visited a green tea plantation owned by Araz Yagubov and learned about Lankaran’s tea-growing traditions and modern cultivation techniques. The discussions focused on the shared tea cultures of India and Azerbaijan and explored opportunities for cooperation and knowledge exchange in the tea sector.
The Ambassador also toured Hirkan National Park and Khanbulan Lake, where he witnessed the region’s ecological diversity and scenic beauty. He shared a brief video highlighting the connection between nature, well-being and yoga.
In neighbouring Lerik district, Kumar visited the Museum of Longevity, the only museum dedicated to centenarians. Senior Curator Matanat Guliyeva briefed him on the museum’s exhibits and Lerik’s reputation as the “Land of Centenarians”. Located in the Talysh Mountains, the district is known internationally for its remarkable longevity and natural heritage.
The embassy said the visit reflected the growing people-to-people ties between India and Azerbaijan and underscored a shared commitment to cooperation in culture, wellness, sustainable agriculture, eco-tourism and environmental conservation. Kumar appreciated the warm hospitality extended to him and expressed hope for deeper engagement in areas of mutual interest between the two countries.
(ANI)
