Baku: The opening ceremony of the international conference titled 'Amplifying Women's Voices across CICA for Sustainable Growth' was held in Baku, organized under the framework of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA), APA reports. The event focused on enhancing women's roles in regional development and sustainable growth.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Bahar Muradova, Chair of the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs of Azerbaijan, highlighted the country's contributions to regional security initiatives, underscoring its growing influence across the CICA region. Muradova emphasized the importance of enhancing women's economic participation, expanding entrepreneurial opportunities, and ensuring social inclusion as key drivers for sustainable economic development.

Leyla Aliyeva remarked on the significant impact of women's participation in societal progress, noting their roles as entrepreneurs, scientists, artists, and leaders. She emphasized the cultural recognition and appreciation of women in Azerbaijan, citing that women constitute about 50% of the employed population, reflecting their active role in the economy. Aliyeva expressed support for Azerbaijan's CICA chairmanship and the establishment of the CICA Women Council, which aims to support women's voices in sustainable growth.

Kairat Sarybay, CICA Secretary General, stressed the role of international and regional organizations in empowering women globally. He noted that platforms like CICA facilitate dialogue and the exchange of best practices among member states. Despite progress in Asia, Sarybay acknowledged that women's voices remain underrepresented in various sectors, making the conference's theme particularly pertinent.

Sima Sami Bahous, UN Women's Executive Director, addressed the conference via a video message, commending the formation of the CICA Women Council. The conference will include panel discussions on topics such as women's entrepreneurship in small and medium-sized businesses, opportunities for artificial intelligence and digitalization, and women's leadership in environmental protection and sustainability.

The event will conclude with the first meeting of the CICA Women Council, focusing on coordination, dialogue, and experience exchange among member states.