From February 28 to March 1, the delegation led by Mr. Anar Baghirov, Chairman of the Azerbaijani Bar Association, took part in the 47th meeting of the presidents of the European bar associations, by the invitation of the Austrian Bar Association.

The conference traditionally held in Vienna, was attended by the heads of the bar associations of countries that are members to the Council of Europe, as well as presidents of IBA, CCBE and representatives of several other regional organizations.

Speeches on "Current status of lawyer profession in Austria and the rule of law" by Mr. Josef Mozer, Minister of Justice of Austria, "Threats to the independence of courts in Europe" by Mrs. Elizabeth Lovrek, Chairman of the Austrian Supreme Court, "Rule of law and restrictions" by Mr. Petra Bard, Professor of the Etvos Lorand University were delivered at the conference which was dedictaed to "Rule of law" topic.

It should be noted that the representatives of bar associations of various countries participating in the conference presented reports on the current affairs of the legal profession in their respective countries, speeches were made by the heads of the lawyers associations in some countries and discussions were held to solve the problems. Particularly, there were debates on the current situation in the Poland and Hungary on threats to judicial independence and the role of lawyer profession in the prevention of these "reforms".

A solemn reception was organized by the Secretariat of the Austrian Chancellor within the framework of the event, Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz's warm greetings were delivered to the guests, and the head of the secretariat expressed an opinion on the exceptional importance of the conference.

During the conference, meetings were held between the heads of the lawyers associations of some countries and the head of the Azerbaijani Bar Association, exchanged views on further cooperation and exchange of experience.

At the same time, a separate bilateral meeting was held with the leadership of the CCBE. During the meeting, CCBE officials were provided with detailed information on the current situation about lawyer profession in Azerbaijan and the prospects for further cooperation.