Tofig Gasimov

Background

Gasimov was born in Leki village of Agdash Rayon, Azerbaijan.

Education

In 1945–1955, he studied in Agstafa city school. In 1955–1960, he was enrolled at Azerbaijan State University and graduated with a degree in Physics and Mathematics using Stalin scholarship. Gasimov continued with his post graduate studies at Physics Institute of Union of the Soviet Socialist Republics Academy of Sciences and in 1969, he obtained his Doctor of Philosophy degree.

Career

After graduation, he worked at the Physics Institute of Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences. He then worked as scientist at the National Academy of Sciences in Baku from 1970 on. Since 1987, Gasimov has been involved in politics.

On behalf of PFA, Gasimov had been sent to Moscow to cooperate with deputies of Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic. Gasimov has been creditted for his role disseminating the truth about the Black January, refugees to more than 100 television, radio channels as well as to international media.

In May 1992, he was appointed the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan and served until April 1993. Gasimov has played an important role in establishing ties with other countries while in office.

During his term, Gasimov signed MOU with United Nations representatives that led to establishment of Azerbaijan"s permanent mission to United Nations. Gasimov authored nearly 100 scientific publications.

Since the end of the 1990s, he has taught in various universities in Turkey and now continues his scientific research work.

Gasimov is fluent in English, Russian and Turkish.

Achievements

• Tofig Gasimov is the co-founder of Baku Scientists Club.

Membership

In March–May 1988, Gasimov participated in drafting the charter of Popular Front of Azerbaijan (PFA) and was one of board members of the organization from 1989 to 1990. He was elected member of the Investigation Committee of Azerbaijani Supreme Soviet during the extraordinary session of the parliament on January 22, 1990 to investigate Black January massacre of January 20, 1990. After being removed from his post, Gasimov has tried to get elected to Azerbaijani Parliament as a member of Musavat during the November 1995 parliament elections but was jailed before the elections even took place.