The Department of Political Science and Philosophy at Khazar University has inaugurated a new academic series titled "Khazar Talks" starting from 2025. For its inaugural seminar, artificial intelligence, one of the world's most pertinent contemporary issues, was selected as the focal point. Subsequently, invitations were extended to Prof. Erman Akıllı from the Department of International Relations at Ankara Hacı Bayram Veli University and Dr. Gloria Özdemir from SETA. Following deliberations with the Turkish scholars, the program's theme was established as "Geopolitics of Technology." The academic seminar was successfully conducted on February 18-19, 2025.
The opening ceremony, held in the Marble Hall, drew participation from university administration, faculty members, students, and specialists. The event was particularly distinguished by the presence of Türkiye's newly appointed Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Prof. Birol Akgün, marking Khazar University as the first higher education institution visited during his tenure.
Associate Professor Orkhan Valiyev, Head of the Department of Political Science and Philosophy, moderated the opening program. In his address, he provided a concise overview of the Khazar Talks initiative and the organization of the technology geopolitics seminar. The ceremony commenced with the national anthems of Azerbaijan and Türkiye.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Academician Hamlet Isakhanli, founder of Khazar University and Chairman of the Board of Directors and Trustees, welcomed Ambassador Prof. Birol Akgün and the distinguished guests, expressing gratitude for the ambassador's inaugural visit. Prof. Isaxanli elaborated on technology's transformative impact on politics, global change, and the unprecedented implications of artificial intelligence for human existence.
Ambassador Prof. Birol Akgün's address highlighted both the benefits and potential risks of technological advancement, emphasizing Turkey's emergence as a significant hub for new technology development, particularly in the defense industry sector. He also underscored the strategic alliance between Turkey and Azerbaijan within this context.
The first day featured lectures by Dr. Gloria Özdemir on "Introduction to AI" and "AI, International Relations, and Technopolar System," followed by an engaging Q&A session. Notably, Dr. Özdemir has commenced teaching "Geopolitics of Technology" at the graduate level at Khazar University this year.
The opening ceremony included a concert performance by the University Chamber Orchestra, led by Zulfiyya Sadigova, an honored teacher and renowned pianist who heads the Music and Fine Arts Department.
The second day of the seminar featured Prof. Erkan Akıllı's presentations on "Türkiye and Turkic World Cooperation in Technology" and "Counterterrorism, AI and Usage of AI in the Security of the Black Sea Region," followed by substantive discussions.
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation and commemorative gifts to the guest speakers, facilitated by Associate Professor Telman Guliyev, Head of the History and Archaeology Department, and Alovsat Amirbayli, Director of Public Relations and Media. The seminar culminated with a commemorative photograph session.
The opening program received extensive coverage in both Azerbaijani and Turkish media outlets:
https://www.ekoturk.com/son-dakika/bakude-yapay-zeka-ve-sorumlu-kullanimi-konusuldu/
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