On July 25, 2024, the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ) hosted the award ceremony for the analytical article competition marking the 25th anniversary of SOFAZ. The competition jointly organized by SOFAZ, and the Azerbaijan Press Council was open to local media outlets, including newspapers, magazines, information agencies, and internet resources, under the theme "The role of the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan in ensuring macroeconomic stability and the development of the country's economy."

The ceremony featured the participation of Bahruz Bahramov, Deputy CEO of SOFAZ, Saadat Mammadova, Deputy Chairman of the Azerbaijan Press Council, other members of the Press Council, and journalists. In his address, Bahruz Bahramov congratulated the winners and underscored the media's pivotal role as partners of SOFAZ over the past 25 years. Bahruz Bahramov emphasized that the collaboration with the media is grounded in transparency and accountability and expressed confidence in the continuation of this productive partnership.

Saadat Mammadova also extended her congratulations to the journalists, expressing her satisfaction with the collaboration with SOFAZ and highlighted the significance of such competitions in promoting the development and specialization of media professionals.

The competition attracted a total of 35 submissions from media representatives between June 22 and July 20, 2024. A joint jury, composed of employees from SOFAZ and the Azerbaijan Press Council, selected eight outstanding entries, including the top three winners and five articles awarded consolation prizes.

The winners of the competition are presented as follows:

• First Place: Ilhama Khanlargizi, Economic News Agency (ENA)
• Second Place: Nurlana Guliyeva, RegionPlus
• Third Place: Shukran Mammadov, APA Information Agency

Consolation prize recipients:

• Punhan Afandiyev, “Xalq qəzeti”
• Ahmad Mammadov, “İki Sahil” newspaper
• Galia Aliyeva, “Бакинский рабочий” newspaper
• Malahat Rzayeva, “Sharq” newspaper
• Ilaha Mammadli, Report Information Agency

The award-winning journalists expressed their gratitude to both institutions, noting that such competitions play a crucial role in motivating Azerbaijani journalists.

Diplomas and awards were presented to the winners during the event.