Azerbaijan plans to double the volume of cargo transported through its territory, further cementing the nation's role as a vital transit hub. Operative Information Center-OMM reports that President Ilham Aliyev announced this strategic goal during the opening ceremony of the Islamic Development Bank Group's 2026 Annual Meetings held in Baku.
According to the head of state, efforts are ongoing to transform Azerbaijan into a central logistics node for international transit routes. "We intend to double the volume of cargo transported through Azerbaijan. Currently, this volume stands at 15 million tons. Naturally, not everything depends solely on us; geopolitical conditions and neighborly relations also play a role. Our plans also include ensuring food security. We have adopted a state program for the development of agriculture and will produce goods to a level that maximizes our self-sufficiency," President Ilham Aliyev stated.
The President also highlighted the importance of cooperation regarding water management and renewable energy sources. "I would like to thank the Islamic Development Bank for their support in constructing water canals, building dams, and securing access to water, which is crucial for agricultural productivity. Furthermore, contracts have been signed with international and local companies regarding renewable energy. By 2032, we will provide 8 gigawatts of solar and wind energy. We are already planning for the export of this energy, with Europe as the primary destination, as it is widely recognized that they will require such energy in the future," he added.
The Islamic Development Bank Group's Annual Meetings serve as a premier platform for member countries to discuss economic development, financial cooperation, and sustainable growth strategies. By hosting such high-level international events, Azerbaijan continues to demonstrate its commitment to global economic integration and the expansion of the Middle Corridor, which connects East and West through the Caspian region.
