BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 28.
Azerbaijan’s national unity, independent foreign policy, adherence
to international law, the peace process with Armenia, and
intercultural dialogue are among the key factors defining the
country’s global standing, political analyst Azer Garayev told
Trend.
He noted that President Ilham Aliyev’s speech at the opening of
the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue contained significant
messages encompassing Azerbaijan’s internal unity, independent
foreign policy, approach to international law, and strategy for
regional peace.
According to the analyst, the speech presents multiculturalism
not merely as a cultural or spiritual value, but as a factor that
strengthens state resilience, social solidarity, and international
relations. At the same time, the speech emphasizes that while
safeguarding its national interests, Azerbaijan advocates for an
approach to international relations based on sovereignty, mutual
respect, and lasting peace.
Garayev pointed out that the international scope of the forum
underscores the significance of the platform established by
Azerbaijan in the realm of intercultural dialogue. The
participation of over 500 guests from more than 100 countries,
combined with a total of over 2,000 registered participants,
demonstrates the reach of this platform.
According to him, the forum, established in 2011 on the
initiative of Azerbaijan, has evolved over the past 15 years into a
significant event on the international agenda. A tradition has been
established to hold the event biennially, with the only
interruption occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic. As President
Ilham Aliyev noted, significant changes, both positive and
negative, have taken place globally since the previous forum held
in 2024. Under these circumstances, the importance of international
platforms for intercultural dialogue has grown even further.
The analyst remarked that Azerbaijan’s hosting of such an
initiative is rooted in the country’s geographical location and
historical experience. Situated at the crossroads of Europe and
Asia, Azerbaijan has served for centuries as a meeting point for
diverse cultures and religions. However, geographical location
alone is not sufficient for the formation of a multicultural
society. Respect for the rights of various ethnic and religious
groups, mutual trust, and unity centered around shared statehood
values play a crucial role in this process.
He stressed that Azerbaijan’s experience demonstrates the
necessity of a consistent state policy and a shared national idea
to ensure that diversity serves to strengthen overall development
rather than lead to societal fragmentation.
According to Garayev, the significance of the concept of
Azerbaijanism deserves special mention in this regard. In the
President’s address, the way in which Azerbaijani citizens of
diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds united around a common
goal, both during the period of Armenia’s military aggression and
throughout the Second Karabakh War, was highlighted as an example
of national solidarity. The reference to the "Iron Fist" in this
context underscores the importance placed on society uniting around
shared statehood interests.
According to the analyst, national unity isn’t merely a factor
creating advantage in the period of peaceful development, but it
also determines the state’s capacity to withstand complex
challenges.
He noted that Azerbaijan’s experience with statehood further
reinforces this perspective. Despite having lived under various
political systems, the people have managed to preserve their
language, traditions, way of life, and national identity. The
commemoration of the 35th anniversary of the restoration of state
independence this October marks a significant milestone along this
historical path. The fact that the majority of development projects
implemented in the country, as well as the achievements attained,
have taken place during the era of independence underscores the
opportunities created by independent statehood.
According to Garayev, independence isn’t merely a political
status, but it also signifies the ability of a nation to define its
own development model, preserve its national values, and freely
choose its future priorities.
The analyst also highlighted the President's views regarding
ideological security. He noted that the threats faced by states in
the modern era are not limited solely to military and physical
risks. The weakening of national identity, the promotion of
internal societal divisions, and the undermining of statehood
values can also create serious problems.
"State security isn't confined to military capabilities and the
preservation of territorial integrity. Safeguarding national
identity, the values of statehood, and social cohesion are also
vital components of this security," the analyst stated.
He added that emphasizing the importance of preserving
Azerbaijan’s distinct character, independence, statehood, and way
of life reflects a comprehensive approach to security. Given that
potential risks often originate from outside the country's borders,
it's of particular importance to closely monitor developments in
the external environment and to safeguard national interests.
According to Garayev, one of the key aspects of the President's
address concerns the application of international law. Azerbaijan’s
experience regarding the liberation of its territories that had
been under Armenian occupation demonstrates that this issue was not
merely a theoretical or diplomatic matter for the country.
The analyst recalled that in 1993, the UN Security Council
adopted four resolutions demanding the immediate, complete, and
unconditional withdrawal of Armenian forces from Azerbaijani
territories. However, these documents remained unimplemented for a
long time. Despite Azerbaijan’s participation in negotiations that
spanned many years, no resolution to the conflict was achieved, and
the status quo remained unchanged.
He said that President Ilham Aliyev’s speech specifically
emphasized how Azerbaijan restored its territorial integrity and
sovereignty, first through the Second Karabakh War in 2020, and
subsequently through an anti-terror operation in 2023. The head of
state linked this process to the provisions of the UN Charter,
including Article 51, which enshrines the right to
self-defense.
According to the analyst, Azerbaijan’s experience demonstrates
that it is not sufficient for international law to be merely
enshrined in documents; its implementation must also be ensured.
When decisions adopted by international organizations remain
unimplemented for long periods, serious questions arise regarding
the effectiveness of these organizations and the credibility of the
international system.
He expressed an opinion that discussions on UN reforms should
also focus on improving the mechanisms that ensure the
implementation of Security Council resolutions. Azerbaijan’s
experience with occupation highlights the gap that exists between
the adoption of international decisions and their actual
implementation.
"To uphold the authority of international law, its provisions
must be applied consistently to all states; adopted decisions
should not be subject to varying approaches based on political
circumstances," he underscored.
The analyst noted that the President’s statements regarding
double standards are also a continuation of the broader discussion
on the application of international law. According to Garayev,
Ilham Aliyev recalled Armenia’s occupation of approximately 20
percent of Azerbaijan’s territory, the displacement of one million
Azerbaijanis from their native lands as a result of ethnic
cleansing, and the destruction of 65 mosques in Karabakh. The
failure to impose sanctions against Armenia during that period was
also cited in the speech as an example of double standards.
Garayev pointed out that the issue of double standards is not
limited solely to the resolution of conflicts. Interference in the
internal affairs of states, including dictating how they should
organize their political and social life, also brings the issue of
sovereignty to the fore.
He said that Azerbaijan considers it essential to uphold the
principle of mutual respect in international relations and to
refrain from interfering with the right of states to determine
their own path of development. This approach aligns with the
country’s independent foreign policy course. Respect for one
another’s sovereignty and national interests is a fundamental
prerequisite for strengthening cooperation between states.
According to the analyst, the steps taken by Azerbaijan in the
post-conflict phase shed light on the essence of the President’s
messages regarding peace. The advancement of a peace initiative
with Armenia, following the restoration of territorial integrity
and sovereignty, is viewed not as a continuation of the war, but as
a deliberate choice aimed at ensuring political normalization.
He stressed that persisting with a policy of revenge could cause
the conflict to descend into an endless cycle. Therefore, it is of
particular importance to halt military confrontation, demonstrate
political will for peace, and establish the legal foundations for
future relations.
According to Garayev, studying this experience at an
international level is also significant. While various conflicts
differ from one another, certain factors contributing to their
emergence and prolonged duration are similar. Aggressive policies,
excessive ambitions, claims of superiority, and a sense of impunity
can all create conditions that deepen confrontations.
The analyst remarked that Azerbaijan’s peace initiative,
launched after putting an end to a 30-year-long occupation, can be
viewed as an example illustrating the significance of political
decisions in the post-war phase.
He pointed out that it would be inaccurate to attribute the
strengthening of Azerbaijan’s international standing solely to
military and political events. The country’s economic capabilities,
its role in the energy market, its transport infrastructure, and
the partnerships it has established with various states also
contribute to the shaping of this position.
According to Garayev, President Ilham Aliyev has linked
Azerbaijan’s development to the hard work of its people, noting
that since gaining independence, the country has transitioned from
a state marked by destruction, occupation, and widespread poverty
to a phase of development. The ability to make independent foreign
policy decisions, the expansion of economic opportunities, and the
establishment of regional cooperation are factors that have
bolstered the country’s international standing.
The analyst highlighted that Azerbaijan’s international position
is further reinforced by specific diplomatic milestones. The
signing of a declaration on a comprehensive strategic partnership
with China in April 2025, followed by a strategic charter with the
U.S. in August of the same year, represent significant stages in
the development of the country’s relations with these two major
powers.
Furthermore, the signing of strategic partnership declarations
or agreements with 10 member states of the European Union
demonstrates that Azerbaijan has expanded its opportunities for
cooperation within the European sphere. The significance of these
ties, however, extends beyond the documents themselves. The key
objective is to establish relations with various political and
economic centers based on mutual interests and to consolidate these
ties through concrete outcomes.
Garayev noted that Azerbaijan’s hosting of international events
serves as an indicator of the country’s diplomatic standing. As
mentioned in the President’s address, in 2027, Azerbaijan will host
the Summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, which brings
together approximately 60 countries, and will assume the
chairmanship of the organization. Furthermore, the Summit of the
European Political Community, involving more than 50 countries, is
scheduled to be held in Baku in 2028.
According to the analyst, these events demonstrate the
importance that states, representing diverse political and cultural
environments, place on cooperation with Azerbaijan. At the same
time, they strengthen the country’s role as a venue for dialogue
and mutual understanding on international platforms.
He also noted the significance of Azerbaijan hosting the Summit
of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures
in Asia (CICA). The unanimous decision to extend Azerbaijan’s
chairmanship of this organization, which brings together nearly 30
countries, for another two years can be viewed as a testament to
the trust placed in the country.
Garayev added that Azerbaijan’s invitation to join the Central
Asian Consultative Format as a full member in 2025 indicates a
geographical expansion of the country’s regional ties. The
inclusion of Azerbaijan, located in the Caucasus, in a cooperation
platform with Central Asian nations can also be linked to the
country’s connectivity potential along the East-West and
North-South corridors.
The analyst emphasized that economic stability and
infrastructure capabilities serve as key pillars of Azerbaijan’s
international standing. According to him, the President stated that
Azerbaijan’s external debt stands at slightly over 5 percent of its
gross domestic product, characterizing this figure as a low level.
The country’s position as a reliable partner in energy supply,
along with its modern transport infrastructure and international
connectivity, further enhances its strategic importance.
He pointed out that in order to transform a favorable
geographical location into a tangible economic advantage, it is
essential to develop infrastructure and maintain good relations
with neighboring states, as well as with countries across the
broader region. In this regard, the fact that Azerbaijan’s economic
policy and foreign policy complement one another is of particular
significance.
According to Garayev, the role of intercultural dialogue within
this broader context is defined precisely by this dynamic. Beyond
promoting mutual understanding among representatives of diverse
cultures and religions, Azerbaijan also shares its experience in
this field on international platforms. The cultivation of an
environment for dialogue can foster greater trust between states,
facilitate the resolution of political disagreements through
discussion, and expand opportunities for cooperation.
The analyst expressed an opinion that while multiculturalism,
economic development, and an independent foreign policy may appear
to be distinct areas, they are, in fact, closely interconnected in
terms of strengthening Azerbaijan’s international standing.
He said that the President’s warning regarding growing global
uncertainty and the emergence of new conflicts must also be taken
into account. In the current international climate, it is essential
to assess security risks in a timely manner and strengthen the
state’s defense capabilities in order to safeguard achievements
made thus far.
According to Garayev, President Ilham Aliyev highlighted that,
among the negative developments occurring since the previous forum
held in 2024, new wars have broken out in areas close to the
region, and among positive developments, he pointed out progress in
the peace process with Armenia. This approach shows that, alongside
political initiatives aimed at achieving peace, issues of security
and strategic preparedness must also remain a priority.
The analyst specifically highlighted the initialing of the peace
agreement text in August 2025 at the White House in Washington,
which took place in the presence of U.S. President Donald Trump.
The document was initialed by the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan
and Armenia. A trilateral declaration was also signed during the
event, with the U.S. President signing the document as a
witness.
He emphasized that the initialing of a peace agreement is not
the same as its signing. Nevertheless, in the President’s speech,
this development is presented as a significant milestone in the
formation of a new political reality in the South Caucasus and in
the peaceful resolution of a long-standing conflict.
Garayev noted that President Ilham Aliyev’s address at the
opening of the forum integrates Azerbaijan’s statehood priorities,
its approach to international law, its peace strategy, and the core
directions of its foreign policy into a coherent, logical
framework.
"Azerbaijan’s international standing is not defined solely by
economic indicators, military capabilities, or diplomatic ties.
National solidarity, the right to sovereign decision-making, the
consistent application of international law, regional cooperation,
and the promotion of intercultural dialogue also serve as vital
pillars of this position," the analyst remarked.
According to him, the primary task for the period ahead is to
safeguard these pillars, expand economic and diplomatic capacities,
remain prepared for potential threats, and transform peace in the
South Caucasus into lasting political outcomes.
