“Region through the eyes of a deputy” project was looking for its next interviewee when we came across images of Ismayilli's unique nature and tourist centers on social media. "What a pleasant coincidence," we said, and contacted **Novruz Aslan**, the deputy of the 89th Ismayilli electoral district. The deputy's work schedule, which set a precise day and time as soon as we called, did not escape our attention.
On our way to the interview, we were listening in the car to Novruz Aslan's compositions, especially "Aldatdı məni" from Faig Aghayev's repertoire and "Gecə də, gündüz də yol gedirəm mən" from Ilhama Guliyeva's repertoire. Our photographer Mehdi said that the song "Yaşın nə fərqi var" also resembled these compositions. We then started listening to another composition by Novruz Aslan – that same music performed in Ilhama Guliyeva's repertoire. When we arrived at the building of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society, which he has voluntarily chaired since 1999, there were 5 minutes left until the meeting. The interview, however, began exactly at the time we had agreed upon – at 15:00.
Modern.az website presents the next installment of the project "Region through the eyes of a deputy."
- Mr. Novruz, you have been the deputy of Ismayilli for a long time. This region is very favorable for tourism. What comes to your mind first when you think of Ismayilli's famous places, and what is the main distinguishing feature of the people of the region?
- When I recall my childhood, I realize that back then we did not deeply comprehend the word "homeland" as much as we do today. Naturally, our knowledge and life experience were limited. However, as years pass, attachment to the homeland and love for the land take root within a person. I feel this more profoundly in recent years. For many years now, I have represented Ismayilli in the Milli Majlis as a deputy. Every Thursday, I go to the region, meet with residents, and familiarize myself with their appeals. Whenever I have work and cannot go to the region, I feel strange and uneasy.
Every time I pass the Mughanli road from Shamakhi, a strange feeling awakens within me. Ismayilli's nature is truly enchanting. That is why it is rightly called the pearl of Azerbaijan. Both the region's nature and the hospitality of its people, as well as the peaceful and friendly coexistence of various nationalities, bestow a special beauty upon Ismayilli. Each nation's unique culture and worldview add an extra color to the region it inhabits. If we want to see beautiful mountains and natural landscapes, we should visit places like Babadagh, Burovdal, Lahij, and Basgal. But for me, Ismayilli's greatest treasure is its people.
The people of Ismayilli are very kind, hardworking, and appreciative. Mountain people have a very interesting psychology: if they believe in you, they love you from the heart and never forget you. But if you lose their trust once, it becomes very difficult to restore it. I consider myself fortunate that through my parliamentary activity, I got to know my land and the people living there more closely. It was then that I learned that we have 105 villages, and each has its own customs, traditions, and spirit. I have traveled through the villages inch by inch. What you say in one village cannot be said in the same way in another; you need to speak according to the unique psychology of each village.
Ismayilli residents also have a characteristic: they attach great importance to sincerity and honesty. When talking to them, you must pay close attention to your expressions and words, and you must be able to stand by your word. During my years as a deputy, I have never promised to do something I could not accomplish. But I have fulfilled 99 percent of my promises. My philosophy as a deputy is built on one goal – to be close to people. I believe that voters should not come to the member of parliament; rather, the member of parliament should go to them. This is why I go to Ismayilli every Thursday. I see that many people have limited financial means. Some cannot even go to the district center, let alone Baku. In winter, I mainly hold meetings in the district center, while in summer, I travel from village to village, inquiring about the problems of each. A deputy should also act as a bridge between the voter and state institutions. I sincerely believe in this idea. People should know that this bridge is reliable, and that they can convey their message to the relevant institutions through their deputy. For this, the deputy's behavior, lifestyle, and even public demeanor are important. It is true that no one is flawless, but we must strive to minimize our mistakes and not lose people's trust in us.
The most important issue for me during these years is the support given by the majority of the people of Ismayilli. Of course, it is impossible to satisfy everyone, because sometimes issues arise that are not within the deputy's authority. But I try to respond to every appeal and guide people. Their trust is my greatest reward. Because it is difficult to earn someone's trust, and losing it is a matter of an instant. One must constantly work to maintain this trust. Ismayilli is a land that combines the beauty of nature with the purity of people. Our greatest value, alongside our land, is the people who love that land.
- It is said that some Ismayilli residents are strict, while others are mild. To which of these categories can we assign you?
- Balance is the main criterion for me, both in politics and in life. I am a composed, patient person. But a characteristic specific to Ismayilli is also in my character: alongside patience, there is a sense of determination and justice. This is the spirit of our mountain people; we appear calm, but there is great strength within us.
- And has it ever happened that you took a harsh stance against officials because of the people of Ismayilli?
- Such a situation has not occurred. My recognition in the public, my journey in the music world, and of course, being the son of Davud Aslan, have made many things easier in my life. These factors have helped me in communicating with people and opening various doors. Wherever I raise the problems of the people of Ismayilli, I manage to achieve at least 70-75 percent of their resolution. This is a great result for me. Every year, I prepare a report on this to present the work done to the public in a systematic and transparent manner.
During my speeches in the Milli Majlis, I have also stated: every deputy should have their own policy. My policy, however, is very simple – to speak less and do more. I actively participate in all issues raised in committee meetings and openly state my position. But in plenary sessions, I do not speak on every topic; I only express my opinion when necessary. Because for me, speaking is not an end, but a means. In broadcasts and events, I speak quite a lot; there are no time limits there, and I have the opportunity to fully convey my thoughts. No one can say that Novruz Aslan's speech or rhetoric is weak. My principle is simply to be patient and to preserve the weight of words. Sometimes, it is possible to create more impact with one sentence than with many speeches.
- You were born in Baku; do you often encounter people from Ismayilli here?
- Naturally, I have many relatives in Baku. I was born in the Keşlə settlement of Baku, on "Ət kombinatı" street. Now that street bears my father's name - Davud Aslan. I studied at school No. 201, and near the school was "Lahijlis' neighborhood," where people who had moved from Ismayilli lived. So, since then, both the atmosphere of the capital and the sincerity of the mountain people have merged in my character. It is interesting that although one side of my family is connected to Ismayilli, life has also connected us with other regions. For example, my daughter's husband is from Zangilan. That's why when someone tells me "I am from Zangilan," I feel as if they are also from my hometown.
My door is open to everyone. I have been involved in public work since my school years. But one thing is that as my position grew, I became even simpler. For me, rank or status is not important; the main thing is to remain human. I do not have a concept called "reception day." Whoever wants to, knocks on my door, comes in, and openly expresses their troubles and thoughts. There is no distance in my work principle; the main thing is to treat people as human beings.
- Mr. Novruz, you have achieved success in composition, sports, parliamentary work, and even in energy, humanitarian, and other fields. What about the people of Ismayilli; have most of them been able to group together in one field?
- This is a truth we must admit – grouping together is a big problem for us. Sometimes, when I talk to people, I say, "Let's think for a moment, who do we have, let's list our prominent personalities." They start listing: Baba Veziroglu, Novruz Aslan, the late Musa Yaqub, Mirdamat Sadigov... Then they stop. We don't even reach ten people. This is not a very encouraging indicator. Many are no longer with us. This means we need to raise a new generation and fill this void. We also have few well-known, influential businesspeople. But this does not mean there is no potential; on the contrary, there is, it just needs support. For example, Azerbaijanis in Georgia, and people from the Western Azerbaijan, Nakhchivan, and Karabakh regions provide very strong support to each other. In our Shirvan region, this feeling is somewhat weaker. I am not saying we are enemies, but the culture of mutual support has not yet developed to the level we desire. When talking about this topic, I always say: read Seyid Azim Shirvani, Mirza Alakbar Sabir; everything is clearly written there. They beautifully described the character and way of thinking of the Shirvan people. My main goal over the last 20 years has been to change this situation. Thankfully, a significant shift is already being felt.
For example, Ismayilli today stands out not only for its nature but also for its tourism potential. The current head of the Ismayilli District Executive Power is also a very knowledgeable, modern-thinking specialist in this field. He demonstrates a smart approach to the development of the district. We are working together to promote Ismayilli and develop its tourism. For this, we prepare video clips and actively share them on social media. Now Ismayilli already has a different image. Our main goal is to further increase this potential and turn the district into one of Azerbaijan's shining regions in terms of tourism and culture.
- Do young people born and raised in Ismayilli have the power to represent Azerbaijan as a whole?
- They are all our pride and glory. I believe that the greatest value distinguishing Ismayilli is its human capital. Ismayilli's brand, in fact, is education. I know people who bring their children from the city to Ismayilli for tutoring so that they grow up educated, cultured, and thoughtful. This is indicative of many things. Our children are talented and hardworking, and I am confident that they will adequately represent Azerbaijan in the future.
- In addition to being a professional athlete, you also have famous compositions. Have your constituents approached you in these areas, and how much support have you provided to the people of Ismayilli in this regard?
- To this day, I support the athletes of Ismayilli district. Support is not only about providing them with the necessary equipment but also helping them within my means when they go on a trip or to a competition. I also try to achieve local public support. Although there are few wealthy people in our Ismayilli, there are many intellectuals, patriotic, and active people. I have established certain traditions in our district to guide them towards various fields. At my initiative, our businesspeople also help athletes and young people pursuing education. I believe that if Ismayilli had more businesspeople, we would achieve more success. But they are very few, countable on one's fingers. When they help, they also say, "Don't mention our names." This is an indicator of how noble and humble they are.
As for music, we have a musical piece called "Ismayilli" together with Baba Veziroglu. Many of our local cultural workers are proud of me, and I am proud of them. They use my music in their repertoires. Culture and art spiritually connect people. I know people who once disliked me, but their opinion completely changed after listening to my compositions. They rediscovered me, and I rediscovered them. People who feel music are completely different.
- During your visits to the regions, have you conducted joint training sessions with local athletes and creative meetings with musicians?
- Yes, I often meet with athletes, and sometimes I have even trained with them. It's true that I am a wrestler myself, but I haven't wrestled with them. We mostly do joint runs and gymnastic exercises in the stadium. I like to keep the same rhythm with athletes. I have found a place for them in my life, and frankly, my closest friends in Ismayilli are indeed athletes.
As for the field of music, I try to participate in all cultural events held in our district. I also try to contribute to this field. It is gratifying that Ismayilli has very valuable cultural workers, and with their talents, they make great contributions not only to the district's cultural life but to Azerbaijan's cultural life as a whole.
- Every village in Azerbaijan has its unique customs and traditions. Among Ismayilli's traditions, which ones do you like and dislike?
- Frankly, all of Ismayilli's customs and traditions are valuable to me. Whether it's Novruz Bayram or other ceremonies, they are all based on sincerity, kindness, and unity. Our people are so amiable and pure that during every holiday, a family atmosphere seems to emerge in the district.
But there is one issue that I jokingly call "Ismayilli's only negative tradition." This is the "baş üstə" (at your command) problem prevalent among officials. For example, when you call and ask for something, they reply, "baş üstə, Mr. Novruz," but then they forget. That is, they say "baş üstə" and close the matter.
I always say that new executive heads coming to Ismayilli must first protect themselves from this "baş üstə" tradition. Because making promises is easy, but fulfilling them requires responsibility. With this exception, all of Ismayilli's customs and traditions are flawless. Each reflects the beautiful spirit and national values of our people.
- Do you have no complaints about wedding and funeral ceremonies, that they have been able to move to a new level?
- In fact, both our weddings and our funerals are traditions that reflect the people's way of thinking and morality. But as times change, the content of these ceremonies must also change. There is a custom in Basgal and Guba that I really like. There, when someone passes away, people gather directly at the cemetery and see the deceased off to their final resting place. After the burial is complete, everyone goes to offer condolences to the host and returns home. There are no alms, no long funeral feasts. I think this is a very beautiful tradition, both morally and culturally. Changes in this direction are also observed in some villages of Ismayilli. Previously, funeral ceremonies were often accompanied by more extravagance, but now in many places, these practices have been eliminated. People now understand that silence, prayer, and good deeds are sufficient to commemorate the soul of the deceased.
I have also openly told my children: When I pass away from this world, do not give alms. Instead, help families in need, the sick, and children. I believe that the greatest alms for a person is the good deed done for another.
- Have you sought medical attention at hospitals in Ismayilli? Overall, do you trust the professionalism of the doctors and the conditions of the hospitals in the district enough to entrust your life to them?
- Yes, I have. I have a kidney stone problem; once during my visit to Ismayilli, I started experiencing severe pain and immediately went to the district hospital. To be frank, the professionalism of the doctors, their swift reaction, and generally the conditions of the hospital pleasantly surprised me. The necessary medical intervention was performed on time, and I felt better in a short period.
Today, there are very significant advancements in the healthcare sector in our regions. Thanks to the attention and policy of the esteemed Mr. President, the infrastructure in the regions has been completely renewed. In Ismayilli, healthcare facilities, sports and Olympic complexes that meet modern requirements, as well as new educational institutions, are operating. The opening of a humanitarian and technical college, in particular, also shows that the state attaches great importance to the social development of the regions and the expansion of vocational and educational opportunities for young people. All of this once again proves that a system has been established in our regions where people can entrust their health and future.
- In the regions, gas, electricity, and water problems mainly persist. What work has been done in Ismayilli in this area, and what are your main goals?
- These issues are, of course, key indicators of the development of any region. Currently, we are conducting very active discussions in this direction with government agencies, especially the Ministry of Economy, "Azerishig," "Azerigaz," and other relevant organizations. There are 22 villages in Ismayilli whose gasification must be carried out urgently. Our state institutions provide us with great support in this work, and we strive to implement these projects at a high level, both technically and ecologically. Of course, it is relatively easier to resolve the situation in the Aran regions, but in mountainous areas, both the terrain and climatic conditions create certain difficulties. In addition, environmental requirements have become stricter in recent years. While people previously alleviated the situation by stocking up on firewood during the winter season, this process is now regulated within strict rules. All of this indicates that we must, on the one hand, implement infrastructure projects, and on the other hand, not forget our responsibility to protect nature. Our goal is to provide sustainable energy supply to every village in Ismayilli and further improve people's quality of life.
- We have certain deputies who have changed their electoral districts multiple times. Do you think about this?
- Frankly, I have also thought about this. I have even been told many times that electoral districts in Baku are more convenient, the distance is shorter, opportunities are wider, and so on. But for me, spiritual connection is more important than distance. Ismayilli is not just an electoral district for me; it is a part of my life. The people there, that nature, that spirit are very dear to me. That is why I have never taken a step to change my district. The trust, love, and faith of the people there are valuable enough. I understand very well that nothing in this world is eternal. A time will come when I will no longer be a member of parliament; another young person, another individual, will take my place. But that is not the main issue for me. I want the residents of Ismayilli to always remember me as a good person, someone who stands by their word and deeds – both during my lifetime and after I pass from this world. This is precisely my policy and life philosophy.
- It is difficult to find a deputy in the Milli Majlis who has a good relationship with the executive head. Although members of parliament do not voice the issue, we have witnessed this many times. What is Novruz Aslan's relationship with the district's executive head?
- I have never had a problem with this issue. On the contrary, my relationships with all executive heads who have led Ismayilli have always been very good. The main reason for this is very simple – I have never asked executive heads for anything related to my personal interests. Because problems arise precisely when relationships are based on personal interests. My goal has always been to be beneficial to the district, to the people, and to our state as a whole. We are a team – the deputy, the executive head, law enforcement agencies, and other state structures must be directed towards the same goal, which is to serve the people. Perhaps in this sense, I am one of those few deputies who meet with the executive head 4-5 days a week to discuss issues awaiting resolution in the district. We build this relationship not on the principle of "who is right?" but on the principle of "what is beneficial for the district?" I believe this is the main key to success.
- Do you have relatives living in the district? Have you provided any support in their employment?
- Of course, I have relatives. But since I was elected deputy, I have been very principled on this matter. I have openly told them never to approach me regarding employment. If there is any medical, social, or household-related problem, of course, I help as a relative, as a friend. But I have never called the Executive Power and said, "Hire so-and-so, he is my relative," nor will I ever say it. Not even one of the 15 members of the municipality is my relative. When I was elected deputy in 2005, I promised myself that I would not pursue personal interests in Ismayilli. My goal is to serve the people of this district and be useful to them. This principle is the main philosophy of my parliamentary activity.
- Should they not work because they are your relatives?
- No, of course, they should work. Every person should have employment and a livelihood. It's just that for me, the principle is that no one should ask me to arrange a high position for them. I have even told my family this: Don't ask me for a job, and if you do, not through this channel.
You can also call the executive head and ask. I have never asked them for anything regarding my relatives' employment. All our conversations have been about the problems in the district and the appeals of the constituents. Of course, when help is needed with personal matters, I try to resolve it myself. I believe that a person should rely on their own strength. Therefore, I consider that it is not the desire for a position, but practical activity and honesty that define a person's identity.
- In Ismayilli cuisine, which dish would you particularly highlight and enjoy very much?
- Pip dolma, Bashgal halva, Lahij halva. We also have Lezgin dishes. In general, all dishes belonging to our cuisine are delicious.
- You have 4 children. What activities are they currently engaged in, and do they consider working in Ismayilli in the future?
- I have one son and three daughters. My son is the youngest; he is currently serving in the army. My middle daughter lives abroad and has established her own activities there. My eldest daughter, Gulnur Aslan, is engaged in creative work. Several of her books have been published, and her poems are met with interest by readers. Sometimes, I compose music for the poems she writes. Thus, a father-daughter creative collaboration has emerged between us. I can say that the creative spirit passed to her from her grandfather - Davud Aslan, but I am the only musician in the family. My youngest daughter is a housewife. Each of them has found their own path, but wherever they are, their attachment to their native Ismayilli is great. Every time I return from the district, they ask about the situation of the people there.
- You emphasized that you are the only musician in the family. What does music represent for you?
- Music for me is not just an art form; it is an inseparable part of my life, almost my way of life. I traditionally present my first music projects to Mr. President; this has been an ongoing practice for years. Of course, the theme of love and affection in music is eternal, but I prefer works with more social content. For example, together with the late Member of Parliament Hadi Rajabli, we prepared the project "Let's not forget the elderly." It was a very valuable work both in terms of its content and its idea. Currently, I have hundreds of compositions remaining from my youth. Even if I don't write a new piece for 50 years from now, that archive would be sufficient for me. But those works do not fully align with the rhythm of today's era, because times change. Today, the main focus in music is on rhythm, whereas true music should make one think, educate, and touch the soul. This is my creative principle. I try to ensure that none of my compositions resemble another's work. Originality is the most important value for me.
- Mr. Novruz, you are also a member of the Culture Committee. How do you evaluate the activities of the Ministry of Culture and the work process with the committee?
- When discussing the development of culture and art, it is first necessary to specifically mention the activities of the Ministry of Culture and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. The Foundation's contribution to this field, especially the invaluable work of Mrs. Mehriban Aliyeva in this area, is unparalleled. Initiatives such as the organization of mugham competitions and the promotion of Azerbaijan's cultural heritage at the UNESCO level strengthen the international prestige of our national culture.
As for the Ministry of Culture, I highly appreciate Minister Adil Karimli's statement at the committee meeting, "We have already prepared a 30-year cultural strategy." Frankly, this approach pleasantly surprised me. This means that we are already thinking about the development directions of Azerbaijani culture 30 years from now. Culture is the most fundamental value for humans. It is the spiritual dimension that distinguishes us from other living beings. From this perspective, special attention and a continuous state policy in the field of culture are extremely important. The main point that pleases me is the very close cooperation between the Ministry of Culture and the parliamentary committee. Mr. Adil personally participates in meetings and is active in discussions. In our recent meetings, we discussed draft laws "On the Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments," "On Library Affairs," and "On Museums." This is very important for strengthening the normative base in the field of culture.
- You have also led the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society for many years. What are the main principles of your activity?
- I have been working on a voluntary basis at the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society since 1999. Although I am the head, I do not receive any salary, and this is a situation unique to Azerbaijan among CIS countries. The main partners of our activity are the International Committee of the Red Cross, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and national societies. According to the Seville Agreement signed in 1997, mandates have been divided among the three components of the movement. During wars and armed conflicts, the mandate belongs to the International Committee of the Red Cross. We do not interfere with their activities, and they do not interfere with ours. The reason for their departure from the country after completing their mission in Azerbaijan was precisely the completion of their activities.
It is true that in some cases, their attempts to "remain neutral" were not unequivocally received by us. But this did not hinder our cooperation. Currently, the International Federation's activities in Azerbaijan continue. They primarily provide support to national societies during emergencies and are an important component of our humanitarian movement.
Today, our main goal is to establish Red Crescent branches in the liberated territories, provide them with offices, and create a foundation for their development. Our branch is already operating in Khankendi.
After the establishment of the Organization of Turkic States, the Red Network was founded to foster humanitarian partnership. This network includes Azerbaijan, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, while Turkmenistan, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and Hungary participate as observers. The next meeting of the leadership of the national societies included in the organization will be held in Baku on November 19-21. The previous meeting was in Bishkek last year, and the next will be in Istanbul.
I can proudly say that we are the only donor country in the CIS space. We have provided humanitarian aid to Nepal, Syria, Turkey, Iran, Moldova, and other countries. Since 2000, an open accounting system has been implemented in the Red Crescent Society. Any person can apply to the accounting department and review the documents. Our activities are completely transparent. There is not even one manat of excess funds in the accounting; all resources are formed through charity and partner projects. For example, during the earthquake in Turkey, we collected nearly half a million in funds. This was perhaps equivalent to one day's expenditure for the Turkish Red Crescent, but it was a great result for us. I believe this lies in the mindset and the distinctiveness of the system. In Azerbaijan, since the Ministry of Emergency Situations is also very active, the Red Crescent Society acts as an auxiliary and coordinating force.
At the end of our interview, which lasted nearly 2 hours, we parted, thinking that there were still many topics we could discuss with Novruz Aslan.
