Baku TV leads as Azerbaijani channels gain millions of online views

Social media now shapes the news agenda, Rovshan Mammadov, chairman of Azerbaijan Television (AzTV), said on Real TV's Media Masası program, Report informs.

He said Azerbaijani television channels are active enough on social media and attract millions of views.

Supporting the AzTV chairman's remarks, Balakishi Gasimov, director general of Ictimai TV (İTV), cited Baku TV as an example, saying the channel draws a very large number of views on YouTube.

"Baku TV is in first place," Mammadov said, confirming his colleague's remarks.

He also noted that Azerbaijani media have seen significant development over the past five years. According to him, this applies to public, private and online television alike, both in terms of content and technology.

Mammadov said AzTV is actively studying international experience and aims to modernize in line with current standards.

"Recently, AzTV employees took part in a training and experience-sharing program at CNN Portugal. The channel is also studying Euronews' working practices," Mammadov said.

He added that viewers would see a fully renewed AzTV by the end of the year. The channel will preserve its traditions while seeking to appeal to a broader audience, he said.