Azernews.Az

By Nigar Orujova

The Dutch Friends of Azerbaijan society (DufoA) has presented a unique gift to the Azerbaijani people by creating a new sort of chrysanthemum called "Azeri".

"Chrysanthemum has been chosen for this purpose as this flower is very similar in nature to the spirit of the Azerbaijani people and symbolizes wisdom, longevity and health," director of DufoA society Marion van der Vergt told Trend news agency.

"This flower is a sign of gratitude to everyone who contributes to the welfare of the Azerbaijani people. It was created in honor of every Azerbaijani proud of his nation, no matter where he or she was born and lives."

According to Van der Vergt, a certificate for the name of a flower in honor of an individual nation, rather than certain individuals, has been issued for the first time in the history of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

DufoA was represented with its own stand during the Flower Holiday, which was held in Baku on May 10 to mark the 90th anniversary of Azerbaijani National Leader Heydar Aliyev. The great gift to the Azerbaijani people was presented there.

Among the previous projects of the society is a new sort of tulip, named in honor of Heydar Aliyev upon DufoA's proposal. A relevant certificate was issued to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on May 10, 2009.

The certificate on naming another new sort of tulip in honor of Azerbaijani First Lady, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Mehriban Aliyeva, was issued in May 2011.

Marion van der Vergt said that she has been fond of the culture of the Caucasus peoples since her early childhood.

"I was happy when I was invited to a conference in Baku in 2008," she said. "Of course, during my first visit to Azerbaijan, I fell in love with this country, this nation with its pure soul, rich culture and generous hospitality. After returning to the Netherlands, I was convinced that I should tell my countrymen about this amazing country. I brought together the enthusiasts willing to fully support and develop the interest of my fellow countrymen in this country."

DufoA has already organized and conducted several cultural events including exhibitions and concerts. Azerbaijan has taken part in various events, including the Flower Holiday and a wine exhibition in the Netherlands, thanks to this organization. The people of this country had the opportunity to be acquainted with Azerbaijan during those events.

Marion van der Vergt is confident that DufoA's activity will promote peace and cooperation between the Netherlands and Azerbaijan.