Baku’s capability to host Formula One race has been witnessed by 500,000 people, said Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan, President of the National Olympic Committee.

He made the remarks addressing at a meeting with athletes who competed in the 15th Summer Paralympic Games held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and their coaches.

“This year’s Formula One race had as many as 500,000 viewers, who witnessed Baku’s capability to host this race. They could not even believe that Azerbaijan had developed to such an extent. Baku has turned into one of the most beautiful cities worldwide,” said the president.

The head of state mentioned that Azerbaijan also hosted the World Chess Olympiad this year, saying it was a record in terms of number of participating teams.

“We have good experience in hosting various international events and all the organizational issues are addressed at the highest level,” added Ilham Aliyev.

Today, Azerbaijan is known as a strong sports country, the president noted.

“The athletes raise our country’s reputation in sports with their medals. The international competitions held in Baku introduce Azerbaijan to the world as a beautiful, developed and progressive country,” he said.

The president pointed to the Islamic Solidarity Games to be held in Azerbaijan next year.

“If we gathered European athletes in Azerbaijan last year, we are going to bring Muslim athletes together in Baku next year. This shows the development of our country,” said President Aliyev. “I’m sure that sport makes a significant contribution to the development of international and inter-religious relations. Our country pursues this aim by holding sporting events.”