What started as a simple decision to learn a foreign language turned into a life-changing journey for Taghi Mammadov, a young Azerbaijani from the city of Quba — a journey that recently earned him unexpected recognition during an interview with Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev on Chinese state television.
During an interview with CGTN anchor Liu Xin, President Aliyev was asked about the growing ties between Azerbaijan and China. Toward the end of their conversation, Liu mentioned a young Azerbaijani student she had previously met — none other than Taghi. Watching the interview from his home in China, Taghi was stunned: “My heart started racing, and my hands were shaking. I never imagined hearing my name on national TV — during an interview with the President, no less,” he recalled.
A Journey That Began with a Single Language Choice
Taghi’s journey to China began during his time at Khazar University in Baku, where he chose Chinese as his foreign language elective — a decision few of his classmates made. “While others were lining up for English or German classes, I picked Chinese. There were only 6 or 7 of us in the group. Something about it just intrigued me,” he said.
His early exposure to the language, led by a native speaker from the Confucius Institute, sparked a deeper interest. “At the time, I knew very little about China. If someone told me back then that I’d end up living here and building a career, I wouldn’t have believed it.”
After participating in a summer school organized under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, Taghi realized the potential China offered. “That first trip opened my eyes. I saw rapid development, modern infrastructure, and a welcoming environment for foreign students. I knew I wanted to return.”
Building a Future in China
He later completed a master’s degree in business administration at the Beijing Institute of Technology and is currently pursuing his PhD at Jiangsu University. Over the years, China has become not just a place of study, but a second home — and a platform for personal and professional growth.
“China is my success story,” Taghi says proudly. “It gave me opportunities I couldn’t have imagined elsewhere.”
A Presidential Shoutout
Taghi’s biggest moment came when Liu Xin mentioned him during her interview with President Aliyev. She recalled meeting an Azerbaijani student thriving in China under the Belt and Road initiative — a reference Taghi immediately recognized as being about him. “I wrote to her right after the broadcast to say thank you. It was such an emotional moment.”
He later shared a clip with his parents, who were stunned and deeply proud. “They didn’t even know the show was airing. But once they saw the video, friends and relatives started calling and congratulating them. It was a proud moment for our whole family.”
Living in China: Challenges and Surprises
Taghi admits it wasn’t always easy adjusting to life in China. The food, culture, and language took time to adapt to — but over time, he embraced it. “Chinese cuisine is very different, but I’ve found dishes that I love. The cities are quiet, clean, and incredibly safe. People are friendly. Even elderly citizens are active — I’ve seen women in their 70s cycling through the streets.”
He adds that safety and quality of life are among the reasons he feels so at home. “You can go out at any hour and feel completely safe. That peace of mind is priceless.”
A Cultural Bridge in the Making
Now, Taghi’s mission is clear: “I want to be a bridge between Azerbaijan and China. Our diplomatic ties are growing stronger every year, especially after the President’s recent visit. There’s a huge potential here for young Azerbaijani professionals — and I want to help build those connections.”
Advice for Others
To young people considering a future in China, Taghi has one piece of advice: “Don’t come just for the money or the degree. You have to genuinely love the culture and want to grow here. If you’re open-minded and motivated, this country can change your life. But if you’re not ready for the differences, it’ll be tough. Love the journey — that’s the only way to succeed here.”
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