Baku:Muhammad Ali Pasha, Chairman of The Gulf Observer Research Forum, shared insights on Azerbaijan's ambitions in artificial intelligence and data centers, as well as its role in global diplomacy. In his interview with the Azerbaijan State News Agency (AZERTAC), Pasha discussed Azerbaijan's strategic response to Armenia's recent opening of a major AI data center and President Ilham Aliyev's invitation to the G20 summit in Miami.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the Firebird 'AI Factory' in Hrazdan, Armenia, represents a significant development in the region with its expected capacity of 300 megawatts by 2027. Azerbaijan, though initially overlooked for this American AI venture, has crafted a confident strategy to compete in the AI race by leveraging its assets.
The strategy, as outlined by Presidential Aide Hikmet Hajiyev, focuses on transforming electricity into digital value through data centers. Azerbaijan aims to move up the value chain by capitalizing on its cheap electricity, strategic location, and reduced bureaucracy. The government plans to double its renewable energy capacity, inviting global AI companies to invest.
Pasha emphasized the importance of stability for attracting AI investments, noting the regional insecurity in the Gulf has made Azerbaijan's Caspian location more attractive. The country's stable energy network and political predictability are seen as key advantages.
The potential of the Caspian region's wind power, highlighted by economist Jeffrey Sachs, further underscores Azerbaijan's strategic vision. The connection between technology development and peace efforts is central to Azerbaijan's approach, aiming to establish a stable, interconnected region.
President Aliyev's invitation to the G20 summit reflects Azerbaijan's strategic importance, even though it is not a G20 member. The summit provides a platform for Azerbaijan to showcase its priorities, particularly in peace, trade, and energy.
The peace process with Armenia remains crucial for Azerbaijan's regional strategy. The U.S.'s involvement and the signing of a joint declaration at the White House earlier this year have firmly placed the South Caucasus on the American diplomatic agenda.
Azerbaijan's balanced foreign policy, maintaining relations with multiple global powers, positions it as a strategic partner. The Miami summit and subsequent developments will test Azerbaijan's ability to leverage its regional importance on a global scale.
Source Azerbaijan State News Agency