Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev gave an interview to Euronews television, highlighting Azerbaijan's significant contributions to international urban development and energy security. The interview, conducted on May 18, was reported by APA.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, during the interview, President Aliyev expressed the honor Azerbaijan felt in hosting the World Urban Forum (WUF13), attended by over 40,000 participants from 182 countries. He emphasized that the event offered Azerbaijan an opportunity to showcase its urban development achievements and future plans, as well as to learn from international partners. The President noted the importance of balancing historical preservation with modern urban planning.

The discussion also covered Azerbaijan's smart city and green energy projects in Garabagh and East Zangezur. President Aliyev described Azerbaijan's unique experience in rebuilding cities and villages from scratch due to the devastation in these areas. He highlighted the progress made in infrastructure, including the commissioning of hydropower and solar power projects, which are expected to support a broader region beyond Garabagh and East Zangezur.

Furthermore, President Aliyev spoke about Azerbaijan's role in enhancing Europe's energy security through the Southern Gas Corridor, which supplies natural gas to 16 countries, including ten European Union members. He mentioned the ongoing increase in gas production and the growing number of countries interested in collaborating with Azerbaijan for energy supplies.

In addressing the Hormuz crisis, President Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan remains largely unaffected due to its diversified energy supply chain. He emphasized the importance of diplomacy and good relations with neighboring countries in establishing successful energy projects. President Aliyev suggested that Azerbaijan's experience could be beneficial to other nations, especially once the crisis resolves and countries reassess their energy strategies.