In the modern system of international relations, Azerbaijan’s standing is determined not only by its geographical location, but also by its multifaceted foreign policy, reliable partnerships and contributions to regional processes. Serving as a vital link between East and West, and North and South, our country contributes to expanding cooperation across Eurasia, strengthening mutual trust and establishing new partnership platforms.

 

The 7th Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA), held in Baku, was another demonstration of Azerbaijan’s growing international standing and its commitment to multilateral diplomacy. Bringing together countries with diverse political and economic interests, this platform is particularly important for promoting dialogue, security and mutually beneficial cooperation.

President Ilham Aliyev’s address at the summit clearly outlined Azerbaijan’s approach to international relations and its commitment to cooperation in addressing regional and global challenges. As the head of state emphasised, ensuring security, maintaining stability and developing economic ties in the modern era require stronger mutual trust among countries.

Azerbaijan’s initiatives are based precisely on these principles. Our country has identified the expansion of regional cooperation, the development of transport and communications links, and the strengthening of political dialogue among states as priority areas. This approach reinforces Azerbaijan’s position not merely as a participant in regional processes, but also as an actor shaping new opportunities for cooperation.

The steps taken during Azerbaijan’s chairmanship of CICA have also contributed to strengthening the organisation institutionally. Promoting cooperation in transport, connectivity, digitalisation, environmental protection, tourism, education and science has broadened the scope of the organisation’s activities.

Commenting on the issue, Member of Parliament Naqif Hamzayev said:

“Azerbaijan’s policy of developing transport corridors and strengthening transport links, as well as digitalising the economy, is also one of the key priorities within this organisation. As you can see, these priorities align, enabling Azerbaijan to bring these issues more prominently to the forefront and establish a new agenda. Azerbaijan’s activities over the past two years have been highly appreciated by the member states”.

Naturally, the unanimous support of the member states reflects the confidence they have placed in Azerbaijan’s work within the organisation and its future initiatives. The extension of Azerbaijan’s chairmanship until 2028 provides our country with additional opportunities to accelerate CICA’s institutional development, strengthen cooperation mechanisms and bring member states closer together around common goals.