An article titled "First Ladies of Caucasus" by Russian journalist Oleg Kusov was posted on the www.ekhokavkaza.com.
Making a short digression into the history of the institute of first ladies, the author says that the concept originated from the USA.
According to Oleg Kusov, spouse of the President of Azerbaijan, "the Muslim East of Caucasus", is the most active and modern first lady. Many call Mehriban Aliyeva, the "biggest" European in the Southern Caucasus, according to Kusov. Mehriban Aliyeva enjoys prestige in not only Azerbaijan but also far beyond its borders.
The author also quotes Baku political scientist Evgeniy Krishtalev as saying that Mehriban Aliyeva "a leader woman, the woman who has her own clear position, a civic stand, public position and makes great contribution to the political life of the country as a member of Parliament, President of Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Goodwill Ambassador of UNESCO and ISESCO".
On global charity and humanitarian activity of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation headed by the First Lady of Azerbaijan, Krishtalev says she uses every opportunity for realizing charity campaigns and humanitarian programs in every country she visits with the President.

AzerTAc