Baku: An expert discussion on 'Azerbaijan's Middle Power Status: Geopolitical Opportunities in Central Asia and the SCO' took place on September 2 at the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The event was organized by the Baku Political Scientists Club, APA reports.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the discussion emphasized the recent intensification of President Ilham Aliyev's foreign policy pursuits. The Azerbaijani leader's engagements with Central Asian heads of state, along with state and working visits, underline Azerbaijan's increasing role in fostering political, economic, and transport connections between the South Caucasus and Central Asia.
The event paid particular attention to President Ilham Aliyev's state visit to Kyrgyzstan on July 31, analyzing its outcomes and significance. Additionally, the results of his state visit to Uzbekistan on August 23-24 were thoroughly examined, highlighting the strengthening of bilateral relations.
Experts at the event pointed out that Azerbaijan's ties with Central Asia have evolved from individual bilateral relations to a more cohesive regional policy. This transformation is marked by the formal establishment of allied relations with Kyrgyzstan, a deepening partnership with Uzbekistan, and collaborative gatherings of leaders from Azerbaijan and Central Asia.
Another focal point was President Ilham Aliyev's working visit to Bishkek on August 31-September 1, where he participated in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) events. Experts noted the SCO's significance for Azerbaijan, both as a political platform and as a means to articulate national interests across a wide geographical area.
The experts concluded that these developments underscore Azerbaijan's 'middle power' status. The country's influence on regional processes, strategic alliances in Central Asia, and active participation in the Turkic world and broader Eurasian platforms like the SCO have bolstered Baku's diplomatic capabilities.
A total of 33 individuals attended the discussions, reflecting the growing interest and importance of Azerbaijan's regional policy initiatives.