Aztelekom LLC, one of Azerbaijan’s leading telecommunications companies and a member of AZCON Holding, has been honored with the prestigious “Gigacity Champion” award by the World Broadband Association (WBBA). This distinguished recognition highlights the company’s remarkable achievements in delivering gigabit-speed broadband connectivity across Azerbaijan.
The award was presented to Mr. Hasan Omarov, the Acting CEO of Aztelekom LLC, acknowledging the company’s dedicated efforts in expanding next-generation digital infrastructure nationwide. The “Gigacity Champion” is one of WBBA’s most significant accolades, designed to recognize leading initiatives that accelerate broadband service development and support cities in achieving the coveted Gigacity status.
Speaking about the importance of this recognition, Mr. Omarov stated:
“This award serves as international acknowledgment of the progress Aztelekom has made in providing high-speed internet connectivity to cities and regions throughout the country. It is a clear testament to our long-term vision and commitment to advancing Azerbaijan’s digital transformation.”
It is worth noting that this is the third major international award Aztelekom has received in the past year alone. As the primary operator of the successfully completed Online Azerbaijan megaproject, the company was previously honored with the Speedtest Award for Fastest Fixed Network by Ookla, the world leader in network analytics. Additionally, Aztelekom received the Best Practice in Home Broadband Development award from IDATE, a renowned global organization with over 45 years of experience in digital transformation.
Remarkably, these three prestigious international awards were granted to a fixed internet service provider for the first time in Azerbaijan’s history, further solidifying Aztelekom’s position as a national leader in innovation and broadband infrastructure development. This recognition not only celebrates past achievements but also strengthens the company’s role in shaping the future of digital connectivity in the country.
Telephone communication in Azerbaijan dates back to 1881, when the first telephone line was installed by the Nobel Brothers Society. Over the subsequent years, telephone services rapidly expanded beyond city centers to include suburban and rural areas. In 1933, the Baku Intercity Telephone Station was established as an independent entity, separated from the Baku City Telephone Station, marking an important milestone in the development of the nation’s telecommunications network.
Over time, significant efforts were made to establish communication networks throughout all cities and villages of Azerbaijan. In August 1992, building on the foundation of the former Telephone Communications Production Union, Aztelekom Production Association was formed with the purpose of providing comprehensive telecommunication services across the country’s regions.
Responding to the increasing demand for internet services in the regions, Aztelekom launched its own internet service provider in 2004. In 2005, the company introduced CDMA wireless communication services, offering portable telephone solutions to enhance accessibility and convenience for citizens relying on stationary telephone lines.
Today, Aztelekom LLC actively implements a wide array of projects and initiatives aimed at providing broadband internet services, including in the most remote villages of Azerbaijan. The company plays a crucial role in improving digital accessibility, ensuring connectivity and convenience for the population, and driving the development of Azerbaijan’s digital infrastructure. Through its continued innovation and commitment to service, Aztelekom remains at the forefront of the country’s telecommunications sector, helping to bridge the digital divide and foster nationwide connectivity.
