Azerbaijan is continuing its path of inclusive and sustainable development, strengthening its position as a pivotal global transport and logistics hub.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, these remarks were featured in the address of President Ilham Aliyev to the participants of the 82nd session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).
The head of state emphasized that over the past two decades, the economy of Azerbaijan has expanded nearly fourfold, while poverty and unemployment rates have dropped to approximately 5%. "Large-scale investments in social protection and infrastructure have improved the welfare of our population, which now exceeds 10 million people. Azerbaijan has achieved great progress in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals by incorporating the UN 2030 Agenda into national development strategies," the President noted.
President Ilham Aliyev further underlined the growing geopolitical significance of regional connectivity projects. "In the current geopolitical environment, the importance of the Middle Corridor is increasing. The Zangazur Corridor will further enhance regional connectivity by linking Asia with Europe, contributing to broader transport, energy, and digital networks in full alignment with the priorities of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific," he stated. He added that Azerbaijan continues to play a reliable role as a guarantor of energy security in various regions.
The President also pointed out that the resolution of the former conflict has created new opportunities for Azerbaijan to expand its international efforts. He cited the country's chairmanship of the Organization of Turkic States and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA), as well as the successful hosting of COP29, as clear manifestations of the international community's growing confidence in Azerbaijan's foreign policy.
The Middle Corridor, also known as the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, has become a vital alternative for trade between China and the European Union, bypassing traditional northern routes. By developing the Zangazur Corridor, Azerbaijan aims to restore historical silk road links through its liberated territories, further integrating the South Caucasus into the global economic framework. This strategic shift coincides with Baku's preparations for COP29, where the country seeks to lead global discussions on the transition to green energy and climate finance.
