Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev addressed the participants of the 8th Congress of the Azerbaijan Trade Unions Confederation.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the President emphasized the significant role that trade unions play in the public and social life of Azerbaijan. He highlighted their contribution to developing labor relations and strengthening civil society.

Significant steps are being taken in Azerbaijan to protect workers’ labor and socio-economic rights, create decent working conditions, and improve social partnership mechanisms. President Aliyev noted the importance of adapting to modern challenges, establishing close ties with trade union members, digitizing services, and expanding the application of artificial intelligence in relevant areas. These efforts aim to enhance service quality and satisfaction levels. Activities aligned with international labor standards and cooperation with the global trade union movement further contribute to the prestige of Azerbaijani trade unions.

The President addressed the dynamic socio-economic development of Azerbaijan, emphasizing the transition to a ‘green economy’ and the impact of artificial intelligence on the labor market. He called upon trade unions to take a more active role in professional associations, worker education, and enhancing knowledge and skills in labor rights. These initiatives aim to ensure the proper regulation of labor relations, social justice, and mutual responsibility.

The Azerbaijani state guarantees the right of trade unions to independent activity within the legislative framework, providing opportunities for their operation. President Aliyev urged for deepened cooperation between sectoral trade unions and social partners, fostering mutual trust, and enhancing collective responsibility.

In his concluding remarks, President Aliyev expressed confidence that Azerbaijani trade unions would continue to defend member rights, contribute to modernizing labor relations, and support the country’s socio-economic development. He anticipated that the Congress would play a pivotal role in determining future directions for the trade union movement and shaping an improved strategy of activity. The address was delivered by Shahmar Movsumov, Assistant to the President and Head of the Department of Economic Affairs and Innovative Development Policy of the Presidential Administration of Azerbaijan.