GENEVA: Speaker of the Milli Majlis and Head of the Azerbaijani Delegation to the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Sahiba Gafarova, emphasized the vital role of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) during her address at the 149th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union. The event, held in Geneva, was themed “Harnessing Science, Technology and Innovation for a More Peaceful and Sustainable Future.”
According to Trend News Agency, Gafarova opened her speech by expressing hope for productive discussions at the assembly and highlighted the centrality of STI in societal development and its significant potential in realizing the SDGs. She detailed the concerning status of SDG achievements, noting that only 17 percent of SDG targets are on track as the 2030 deadline approaches. The speaker called for urgent action and viable solutions to bridge the gap between developed and developing nations and address persistent inequalities.
Gafarova pointed out the importance
of making STI accessible and affordable worldwide, criticizing scenarios where technological advantages lead to prioritization in resources, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. She argued that to leave no one behind, developing countries need to integrate STI into their national strategies with support through international cooperation, financial and technical assistance, and technology transfer.
The speaker also underscored the proactive role parliaments should play in promoting STI through national development programs and international partnerships. She shared insights into Azerbaijan’s commitment to incorporating SDG goals into its national plans, focusing on modern innovations and developing competitive human capital as part of its socio-economic strategy through 2030.
Highlighting Azerbaijan’s efforts in renewable energy and green technologies, Gafarova mentioned the country’s initiatives in developing green energy zones in liberated territories. She also referenced Azerbaijan’s humanitarian contrib
utions, amounting to 330 million US dollars to over 140 countries since 2020, and its leadership in global calls for post-pandemic recovery support.
Looking ahead to the COP29 climate summit scheduled in Baku, Azerbaijan, Gafarova revealed that the event will feature a Green Digital Action initiative and a Digitalization Day to discuss the role of digital technologies in tackling climate change. She invited assembly participants to a Parliamentary Meeting during COP29, aiming to enhance parliamentary involvement in global climate action.