Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Dmytro Shlapachenko, the newly appointed United Nations Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, who presented his credentials on September 2.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, during the meeting, President Aliyev highlighted the strong relations between Azerbaijan and the UN, mentioning that Azerbaijan has been the host of significant UN events such as COP29 and the World Urban Forum. He also announced the upcoming Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, which will be organized in collaboration with the UN Alliance of Civilizations.

Dmytro Shlapachenko acknowledged Azerbaijan's role as a key partner of the UN, emphasizing the country's reputation for hosting prestigious events in its capacity as a 'middle power' state. He recalled the successful organization of COP29 and the World Urban Forum in Baku and mentioned the ongoing 4th International Mine Action Conference in the city. He further announced that UN Climate Week is set to take place in Azerbaijan.

Shlapachenko expressed appreciation for Azerbaijan's support of UN activities and conveyed the UN's willingness to provide expertise for Azerbaijan's development programs, especially in the reconstruction of the post-conflict areas of Garabagh and East Zangezur. He noted the UN's readiness to assist Azerbaijan in addressing its mine problem, offering expertise in this challenging area.

President Ilham Aliyev discussed the extensive restoration and construction efforts in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan, despite the significant challenges posed by landmines. He emphasized the nation's ongoing commitment to demining activities to facilitate reconstruction.

Dmytro Shlapachenko announced his plans to visit Garabagh soon and highlighted a major event planned at Garabagh University to commemorate United Nations Day. The discussions also touched upon environmental issues such as the ecological conditions of transboundary rivers in the South Caucasus and the declining water level of the Caspian Sea, highlighting the need for monitoring and intervention.