Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev emphasized the importance of transforming the South Caucasus and the broader Eurasian region into a center for dialogue and cooperation. In an address to participants at the international conference on ‘The New World Order: Geopolitical Aspects and Global Challenges’, he highlighted the need for unity amid complex geopolitical developments.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev noted the emergence of new power centers and a shift towards a new world order in the international relations system. He stressed the significance of safeguarding national interests and sovereignty, while promoting peace, stability, and multilateral development to tackle challenges in political, military, economic, cultural, humanitarian, and environmental spheres.

Highlighting Azerbaijan’s recent history, President Aliyev recalled the nation’s struggle for territorial integrity. Despite four UN Security Council resolutions urging the withdrawal of Armenian forces, Azerbaijan’s territories remained occupied for nearly three decades. It was only after the 44-day Patriotic War and a subsequent anti-terror operation that Azerbaijan restored its sovereignty, achieving a vision set forth by National Leader Heydar Aliyev.

President Aliyev also reiterated Azerbaijan’s commitment to fostering a just world order. He underscored the country’s role in regional and international security through collaborative projects with partner nations, aimed at facilitating cooperation between East and West, as well as North and South. During its leadership of the Non-Aligned Movement, Azerbaijan adhered to the Bandung Principles, consistently supporting justice, international law, and the interests of member countries.