Painter Farhad Khalilov receives Azerbaijan's highest honour, the Order of Independence, ahead of his 80th birthday

On 23 October President Ilham Aliyev presented People's Artist Farhad Khalilov with the Order of Independence (İstiqlal), the country's highest state award. A presidential order on the honour was signed the same day, citing his great services to the development of Azerbaijani culture.

The head of state noted that Khalilov's works are shown in many countries, that he has presented Azerbaijan and its natural beauty to the world and has trained young artists. Aliyev added that Khalilov has led the Artists' Union for nearly 40 years and remains active in public life.

At the ceremony the president recalled that Khalilov already holds the Shohrat, Sharaf and 1st-degree Amak orders, and noted that the image of the new order was designed by Khalilov himself. A congratulatory letter marking the artist's 80th birthday was also sent.

Khalilov thanked the president.