Nakhchivan: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva have inaugurated the Nakhchivan Regional DOST Center of the Agency for Sustainable and Operative Social Provision (DOST Agency) under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population. According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the event took place on August 11, with both dignitaries actively participating in the opening ceremonies.

Minister of Labour and Social Protection of Population Anar Aliyev informed the president and the First Lady about the center's facilities. It was revealed that the center will offer 164 social services to the population, staffed by 117 employees and 50 volunteers. The center aims to serve between 500-600 citizens daily, offering services based on a 'one-stop-shop' principle to ensure convenience and accessibility. The services include pensions, labour and employment, social benefits, and disability services, among others.

The center will also focus on medical-social assessments and provide rehabilitation equipment for persons with disabilities. This initiative is part of a broader state policy aimed at enhancing social protection and rehabilitation services for citizens with disabilities. The center's offerings also include high-tech prostheses and rehabilitation equipment, significantly aiding war-disabled individuals and those with disabilities.

In addition to the DOST Center, President Aliyev and First Lady Aliyeva attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the Nakhchivan Industrial Park. According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov briefed them about the park's development. The park, covering 310 hectares, is set to boost industrial activity in the region, with negotiations already underway to attract entrepreneurs.

This newly established industrial park is part of a larger network of eight industrial parks in Azerbaijan. These parks have collectively attracted significant investment and created numerous jobs, contributing substantially to the country's economy. The Nakhchivan Industrial Park is expected to follow suit, providing a fertile ground for business growth and economic development.

Efforts to expand both social services and industrial infrastructure align with Azerbaijan's broader goals of comprehensive social and economic advancement. The initiatives underscore the government's commitment to improving living standards and fostering sustainable growth across the country.