Azerbaijan’s Global Engagement and Impactful Contributions
By Fikir Gilitsi
Political Analyst
As Azerbaijan commemorates the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, the nation reflects on his indelible legacy and Azerbaijan’s remarkable contributions on the global stage. From fostering stronger partnerships with African countries to assuming a leadership role within the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), promoting peace and development in the Caucasus region, and preparing to host COP29, Azerbaijan’s journey exemplifies the spirit of progress and international cooperation.
Strengthening Ties with Africa:
Azerbaijan’s relations with African countries have flourished in recent years. Through expansion of diplomatic missions, trade and humanitarian exchanges, Azerbaijan has fostered stronger ties with nations including Ethiopia.
Ethiopia and Azerbaijan established diplomatic relations in 1992. High-level visits and exchanges between the two countries keep playing a crucial role in strengthening political ties. The visits have provided opportunities for dialogue, the signing of documents, and the identification of areas for further cooperation. Expansion of diplomatic presence in each other’s capitals facilitates closer engagement.
Efforts are being made to diversify and expand the range of bilateral exchanges towards economic dimension. Both sides are exploring opportunities to increase trade volume and optimize trade routes to maximize efficiency.
Cultural and educational exchanges have played a significant role in enhancing people-to-people relations between Ethiopia and Azerbaijan. Cultural events have been organized to promote cultural understanding and appreciation. Additionally, some scholarships have been provided to students from Ethiopia to study in Azerbaijan, fostering academic and cultural exchange. That can also be extended to technology and practice transfer in some areas as well.
Economic cooperation between Ethiopia and Azerbaijan has been one of key focus area. Both countries recognize the importance of economic development and have sought to enhance trade and investment ties with Ethiopia in various sectors, such as energy & infrastructure, agriculture.
Ethiopia and Azerbaijan have also collaborated on regional issues. Both countries have been active members of the NAM, where they have worked together to promote peace, security, and development. Azerbaijan’s leadership within the NAM has provided a platform for Ethiopia to engage in multilateral dialogue and initiatives.
Azerbaijan’s influential role within the NAM has been instrumental in shaping global discourse. During its tenure as chair, Azerbaijan spearheaded initiatives such as the creation of the Parliamentary and Youth Networks with Women Platform within the NAM. These platforms are empowering parliamentarians, women and young leaders from member states to collaborate, exchange ideas, and address pressing global challenges collectively. By championing inclusivity, gender equality and youth participation, Azerbaijan has fostered a sense of ownership and unity among NAM members, thereby strengthening the movement’s commitment to multilateralism, peace, and cooperation.
Azerbaijan’s commitment to peacebuilding has been exemplified through its successful resolution of the long-standing conflict with its neighbor Armenia. Under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan restored its sovereignty in its entire internationally recognized territory, bringing an end to decades of conflict. The post-conflict reconstruction efforts have been comprehensive, focusing on rebuilding infrastructure, rehabilitating communities, and providing support to internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees for their safe and dignified return to the homeland. Azerbaijan’s dedication to socio-economic development in its liberated regions is evident through investments in green and smart cities and villages, healthcare, education and infrastructure projects generating employment opportunities. By restoring cultural heritage sites, such as the historic Azerbaijani city of Shusha, Azerbaijan showcases its commitment to preserving cultural diversity and fostering regional stability.
Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, is poised to host COP29, the 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Recognizing the urgency of addressing climate change, Azerbaijan has taken proactive steps to prepare for this global event. The nation has invested in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, and implemented energy-efficient practices. Baku’s commitment to sustainability is evident through eco-friendly transportation systems and energy-efficient buildings and infrastructure in general. By hosting COP29 in 2024, the year that has already been announced a Year of Green World and Solidarity in Azerbaijan, the country aims to contribute to the global dialogue on climate change, foster international cooperation, and inspire collective action towards a more sustainable and resilient future.
As Azerbaijan has been commemorating in 2023 the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, it is celebrating a legacy of global engagement and impactful contributions.
National Leader Heydar Aliyev’s vision and Azerbaijan’s commitment to progress shape its engagement with the global community, solidifying its role as a catalyst for positive change. Through its enduring legacy, Azerbaijan paves the way for a more interconnected, peaceful, and sustainable world.
