On October 30, 2025, an international conference titled “A Vision Shaping the Future” was held in Kuwait City, the capital of the State of Kuwait, organized by the Kuwait Bar Association.

The event brought together leaders of bar associations, lawyers, and legal professionals from many countries around the world. The Azerbaijan Bar Association (ABA) was represented by Shahmar Mammadov, Deputy Chairman of the ABA and Director of the Legal Aid Center.

During the conference, Shahmar Mammadov spoke at the panel session titled “The Development of the Legal Profession: Locally and Globally.” In his address, he greeted the participants and provided information about the history of the ABA, recent legal reforms, the growing number of lawyers, and efforts to strengthen the institution of advocacy in Azerbaijan. He also highlighted the fundamental steps taken to align the ABA’s activities with international standards and modern management principles.

The Deputy Chairman emphasized that the ABA attaches great importance to expanding international relations and developing effective cooperation with international legal organizations. He also spoke in detail about the admission process to the Bar, electronic services, financial independence, support for young lawyers, training programs, free and state-funded legal assistance, social initiatives, public engagement, achievements in sports, and the improvement of material and technical resources. In addition, he provided information about the activities of the Legal Aid Center, Training Center, various committees, and the Women Lawyers’ Alliance.

In his remarks, Mammadov noted that as a result of targeted reforms carried out in recent years, the prestige of the legal profession in Azerbaijan has significantly increased, public confidence in lawyers and their work has grown, and the quality of legal assistance has improved.

He also spoke about the ongoing renovation and construction work at the ABA’s administrative headquarters, informing that the building would soon be commissioned. Furthermore, he mentioned that consistent efforts are being made to strengthen the material and technical base of regional bar organizations and improve their working conditions.

Mr. Mammadov stressed that the ABA has fully achieved financial independence, reaffirming the position often emphasized by ABA Chairman Anar Baghirov, who has stated that “a strong organization must also be financially independent.” He added that ensuring financial autonomy remains one of the key priorities in the ABA’s operations.

Within the framework of the visit, Shahmar Mammadov held meetings with leaders of bar associations and lawyers from various countries, discussing current legal challenges, modern approaches, and best practices. He also participated in exchanges of ideas and experiences related to strengthening international cooperation, continuing legal reforms, and improving the professional qualifications of lawyers through the application of effective legal mechanisms.