Istanbul: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev addressed the participants of the 28th Eurasian Economic Summit, APA reports. In his address, President Aliyev extended a warm welcome to the attendees, highlighting the significance of the event, which coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Marmara Group Strategic and Social Research Foundation. He congratulated the Foundation for its contributions to global and regional cooperation, peace, stability, and intercultural dialogue.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev acknowledged the Marmara Group Foundation and its head, Akkan Suver, for their roles in enhancing relations between Azerbaijan and Turkiye. He recalled how National Leader Heydar Aliyev valued the Foundation’s mission, noting that the Eurasian Economic Summits began in 1998 at Heydar Aliyev’s initiative. He also mentioned the ‘Turkic World Award’ established in memory of Heydar Aliyev, presented to Nobel Prize winner Aziz Sancar.

President Aliyev emphasized the strong ties between Azerbaijan and Turkiye, praising President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for strengthening their brotherhood and strategic alliance. He highlighted the dynamic development of their interstate relations, rooted in common history and values, which contribute to regional peace and security.

The summit’s theme, ‘A More Humane World – Dialogue for a Livable World,’ was underscored by President Aliyev as he discussed Azerbaijan’s commitment to dialogue, multiculturalism, and tolerance. He emphasized Azerbaijan’s efforts to promote peace in the South Caucasus and its role in global dialogue and cooperation through initiatives like the Non-Aligned Movement and COP29.

President Aliyev expressed confidence in the summit as a platform for fruitful discussions on various issues, including economy, energy, digitalization, and healthcare. He concluded by congratulating the Marmara Group Foundation on its anniversary and wishing success to the summit.