On July 13, during the opening ceremony of the 4th Shusha Global Media Forum titled "The Mission of the Media in Promoting Peace: Restoring Truth and Rebuilding Trust," Ilham Aliyev, the President of Azerbaijan, stated that becoming a transit country is impossible without establishing strong relations with neighboring states. Aliyev emphasized that Azerbaijan has managed to develop ties with all neighboring countries while simultaneously creating broad international cooperation networks across Eurasia. He noted that Baku has built partnerships in eastern, western, northern, and southern directions, while also implementing major energy projects that strengthened the country’s position as a participant in multilateral cooperation. The president stated that Azerbaijan maintains constructive relations with Central Asian countries, Georgia, Türkiye, and European states. Referring to recent tensions in the Middle East, he highlighted Azerbaijan’s role as a transit hub, noting that during the escalation, air routes continued operating through Azerbaijani territory. According to him, when land and maritime transportation are also considered, Azerbaijan’s strategic importance becomes even greater.

Aliyev also spoke about relations with Türkiye, describing them as unparalleled internationally. He stated that Azerbaijan and Türkiye represent two nations with the closest level of cooperation in political, economic, energy, connectivity, and people-to-people relations. "There are no two states in the world that are so close to each other, that support each other so much, that have such a friendship with each other," Aliyev said, adding that this partnership represents a major asset for both societies and contributes to regional stability. The president emphasized that cooperation between Baku and Ankara has reached the level of an alliance following the signing of the Shusha Declaration five years earlier. He noted that the relationship is based not only on historical and cultural ties but also on strategic cooperation. "We are not only brothers and friends, but we are also allies," Aliyev stated, adding that both countries would support each other with their military capabilities if faced with serious challenges. According to Aliyev, the Azerbaijani-Turkish partnership demonstrates that shared ethnic, cultural, and historical backgrounds can create a strong political foundation. He noted that there are cases where countries with similar languages and religions have conflicts, while Azerbaijan and Türkiye have developed a model of cooperation that could serve as an example for other states.

Aliyev also criticized Section 907 of the US Freedom Support Act, describing it as an unjust measure adopted by the US Congress and promoted by pro-Armenian senators. The president stated that former US President Joe Biden was among those who supported the measure, which, according to him, created difficulties in Azerbaijan-US relations during Biden’s administration. Aliyev argued that Azerbaijan was unfairly deprived of American assistance because of allegations that Baku had imposed a blockade on Armenia. He rejected these claims, saying that the situation did not reflect reality. The Azerbaijani leader stated that Section 907 has become outdated, especially after Azerbaijan and Armenia initialed a peace agreement with the participation of President Donald Trump and after Baku removed restrictions on Armenia. He noted that Azerbaijan had allowed the transportation of more than 40,000 tons of cargo from Russia, Kazakhstan, and other countries to Armenia, while also beginning supplies of petroleum products, exceeding 10,000 tons. "Section 907 must be completely removed and abolished," Aliyev stated, arguing that its elimination would benefit all sides and demonstrate that the US Congress recognizes changes in the geopolitical environment. He added that despite Trump’s position supporting the removal of restrictions, the measure remains in effect. According to Aliyev, eliminating Section 907 would remove discrimination against Azerbaijan and show Washington’s willingness to correct previous decisions.

Aliyev further stated that Azerbaijan is considering a complete withdrawal from the Council of Europe, arguing that recent decisions by the organization against Baku were politically motivated. He recalled his previous experience with the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), where he served as head of the Azerbaijani delegation after joining the institution in 2001. According to Aliyev, after Azerbaijan restored control over territories that had remained under the control of separatist forces in 2023, PACE adopted measures that he described as punitive actions against Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity. He noted that in January 2024, the Azerbaijani delegation’s credentials were questioned and its voting rights were suspended. Aliyev argued that the issue was not related to human rights but was instead a political decision directed against Azerbaijan. "The Azerbaijani delegation made a very wise decision. They refused to participate in the meetings. If we have no voting rights, why should we be there?" he stated. The president said Azerbaijan also refused to support the election of judges to the European Court of Human Rights and therefore does not recognize decisions made by judges selected without Baku’s participation. "I say openly that Azerbaijan is considering full withdrawal from the organization. Not just the suspension or freezing of our membership – we are unequivocally considering leaving that structure," Aliyev emphasized. He added that the Secretary General of the Council of Europe had contacted him and encouraged Azerbaijan to seek a solution. However, Aliyev argued that the organization must first restore the voting rights of the Azerbaijani delegation before Baku considers returning. The president stated that Azerbaijan does not seek confrontation but believes it has been treated unfairly. He recalled that Baku voluntarily joined the Council of Europe in 2001 with the expectation that the organization would contribute to resolving the Garabagh conflict.

Aliyev also addressed Azerbaijan-EU relations, stating that ties had nearly collapsed during the tenure of former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell. He accused certain individuals within European institutions of pursuing an anti-Azerbaijan approach and mentioned former International Criminal Court Prosecutor Luis Moreno Ocampo, whom he claimed benefited from financial support connected to Armenian interests. Aliyev expressed hope that Borrell had left politics permanently, saying that relations with the EU began improving afterward. He stated that both sides recognized the need to restart cooperation based on mutual interests. The president pointed to several high-level European visits to Azerbaijan, including visits by European Council President António Costa, EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. According to Aliyev, public statements from both sides indicate satisfaction with the current level of cooperation.

Aliyev described US President Donald Trump as a leader capable of contributing to peace and stated that Washington played an important role in Azerbaijan-Armenia negotiations. He criticized previous US administrations and the Minsk Group, claiming that their approach during the decades-long conflict was aimed at maintaining the status quo rather than achieving a settlement. "Although there were UN resolutions on this issue, their goal was precisely to freeze it," Aliyev stated. According to him, Trump’s approach differed because he understood Azerbaijan’s concerns and recognized the importance of the Zangazur Corridor connecting Azerbaijan with the Nakhchivan region. Aliyev stated that Trump and his team created conditions that helped make a peace agreement possible and explained to Armenia why such an agreement would also serve its interests. The president said Azerbaijan-US relations are currently at their highest level, referring to his meeting with Trump in August and later contacts, including discussions in Davos, Azerbaijan’s invitation to join the Board of Peace initiative, and the signing of a strategic partnership charter in Baku with US Vice President J.D. Vance. He noted that working groups are currently cooperating in areas including trade, investment, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, energy security, connectivity, defense, and military supplies. Aliyev added that Washington removed restrictions on arms supplies to Azerbaijan, followed by similar decisions from the United Kingdom and EU member states. The President of Azerbaijan stated that Baku hopes for a rapid end to the conflict between the US and Iran, warning that instability between neighboring countries directly affects Azerbaijan’s security environment. Aliyev noted that Azerbaijan is geographically located between two states involved in tensions and emphasized that ongoing conflicts near its borders create concerns despite the existing stability inside the country. "Currently, both of our neighboring countries to the north and south are in a state of war. This raises concerns regarding the protection of our country," Aliyev stated. He highlighted Pakistan’s mediation efforts between Washington and Tehran, praising Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s role in attempting to reduce tensions. Although the mediation process did not continue for long, Aliyev expressed hope that the renewed confrontation would not become prolonged. The president emphasized that Azerbaijan supports peace but believes that any settlement must be based on international law. He recalled that Azerbaijan had also experienced occupation for decades and had attempted to resolve the conflict with Armenia through peaceful means before restoring its territorial integrity through military action. According to Aliyev, Azerbaijan demonstrated responsibility by stopping its military operations after achieving its objectives despite having further options. "We proved that we are a wise and responsible partner," he stated. The president also praised Pakistan’s international position, describing it as the only country capable of mediating between the US and Iran. He expressed confidence that continued Pakistani efforts could contribute to achieving peace in the Middle East.

Moreover, Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan is negotiating with European Union countries to expand natural gas supplies and strengthen its position as a reliable energy partner. The president noted that Azerbaijan had begun exporting gas to Austria and Germany and said this was part of a broader strategy aimed at increasing Baku’s presence in European and global markets. He emphasized that Azerbaijan currently supplies gas through pipelines to 16 countries, making it one of the leading exporters in terms of geographical reach. "We are number one worldwide in this regard, and these capabilities will be expanded," Aliyev stated. According to him, negotiations are ongoing with additional EU members regarding both the start of supplies and increasing existing volumes. He described Azerbaijan as a predictable and reliable energy partner whose importance has grown significantly compared with a decade ago. Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan has developed a program to increase gas production and has created an investment portfolio for this purpose. At the same time, he noted that Baku is expanding renewable energy projects to reduce domestic gas consumption. He said that by 2032, Azerbaijan plans to increase renewable energy capacity to 8 gigawatts, which would allow the country to save between 2 and 3 billion cubic meters of gas annually. The president explained that the energy landscape changed after the Russia-Ukraine war, as European demand for Azerbaijani gas increased significantly. He recalled that the European Commission encouraged Azerbaijan to increase production and stated that exports to the EU had already grown by 65% compared with 2022. Aliyev emphasized that expanding transportation infrastructure remains a priority, as existing systems were designed before the changes in European energy demand. However, he pointed to challenges related to Europe’s green energy policies and financing restrictions for fossil fuel projects. According to him, European banks are increasingly reluctant to invest in traditional energy infrastructure, creating difficulties for expanding production. The president also stressed the importance of long-term contracts with European partners. "We need long-term contracts. We need large investments to sharply increase production, and if at some stage we are told ‘thank you, we no longer need your gas,’ this would be unacceptable," Aliyev stated. He added that Azerbaijan is also diversifying its energy markets, noting that Azerbaijani gas is now reaching destinations that previously seemed unlikely, including Syria.

Also, Aliyev emphasized that Azerbaijan’s growing regional role is based on trust, transparency, and its ability to provide assistance when possible. The president stated that countries cooperating with Azerbaijan understand that Baku maintains a clear and consistent position. "Our position is transparent. We have always sincerely helped wherever we could," Aliyev said. He added that Azerbaijan provides both material and political support while ensuring that confidential information remains protected. According to Aliyev, trust has become an important factor in Azerbaijan’s regional diplomacy, allowing the country to contribute to mediation efforts. He also referred to Azerbaijan’s role within the Non-Aligned Movement, noting that the organization’s 120 member states unanimously supported Azerbaijan during the election process. Aliyev stated that Baku demonstrated its ability to deliver results during its chairmanship and was later asked to extend its leadership period when a replacement was not immediately agreed upon. "This is the trust and confidence in us at the regional level," he emphasized.

Additionally, Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan-Russia relations have entered a period of normalization after overcoming previous difficulties. The president noted that Baku values its relationship with Moscow and referred to statements by Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin, regarding the positive development of bilateral ties. According to Aliyev, relations between the two countries had faced challenges that were widely known, but that period had now passed. "I would say that relations have been fully normalized," Aliyev stated. He explained that cooperation continues through government channels, intergovernmental commissions, foreign ministries, and presidential administrations. The president emphasized that relations between Azerbaijan and Russia are important not only bilaterally but also for the wider region. Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan’s criticism of France’s policies regarding overseas territories should not be interpreted as a rejection of bilateral relations with Paris. He emphasized that disagreements between the two countries represent normal diplomatic interactions between sovereign states. "This has no relevance to our bilateral relations with France," Aliyev stated, adding that Azerbaijan seeks normalization with Paris. According to him, criticism from one side and responses from the other are part of relations between equal states. "Neither is superior to the other in any matter," Aliyev said.

Aliyev also stated that the 3+3 cooperation format in the South Caucasus should become a genuine six-party mechanism rather than repeat the experience of the Minsk Group. The president recalled that Azerbaijan proposed the initiative as a framework for post-conflict regional cooperation and the restoration of sovereignty. He noted that when the proposal was introduced, parts of Karabakh remained under the control of separatist forces. According to Aliyev, the format should include Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Russia, Türkiye, and Iran, with all participants operating on the basis of equality. "Today, at this stage, it is important for this to be a fully-fledged six-party cooperation," Aliyev stated. He added that until Georgia joins, the mechanism could function as a five-party format but should maintain a clear regional agenda. The president warned that the initiative should not become another Minsk Group focused only on Azerbaijan-Armenia issues.

The President of Azerbaijan stated that relations between Azerbaijan and China have entered a new phase following his visit to Beijing and the signing of a declaration on comprehensive strategic partnership. Aliyev emphasized that Baku attaches great importance to expanding cooperation with China, noting that numerous Chinese companies are already operating in Azerbaijan through investments and infrastructure projects. He stated that during his visit to China, he held meetings with representatives of major companies and expressed satisfaction with their activities in Azerbaijan. "By the way, they work in a very efficient, fast, and high-quality manner," Aliyev said. The president noted that cooperation with China has expanded beyond economic projects and now includes the defense sector. According to him, Azerbaijan has already acquired certain military products from China, some of which were displayed during the military parade marking the fifth anniversary of Azerbaijan’s victory. Aliyev added that discussions on additional defense and military-technical cooperation are ongoing. The president also highlighted the growing importance of transportation links between Azerbaijan and China. He stated that cargo volumes between the two countries are increasing, while Central Asian states are also becoming part of this connectivity process. According to Aliyev, cooperation along the Middle Corridor is developing rapidly, including infrastructure, logistics, and digital projects. He stated that Azerbaijan and a Chinese company will implement a major investment project involving the construction of a solar panel production facility in Azerbaijan, with the products expected to be exported.

Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan continues to support Ukraine’s territorial integrity and believes that the conflict should have been ended earlier through peaceful means. The president recalled the recommendation he had previously given to Ukraine not to accept the continuation of the conflict. "I reaffirm today the recommendation I gave to Ukraine last year: do not accept the conflict," Aliyev stated. He emphasized that Azerbaijan understands Ukraine’s situation because Baku had also experienced occupation and international pressure during the Garabagh conflict. Aliyev recalled that during the Second Garabagh War, Azerbaijan faced calls from international actors to stop military operations after regaining certain territories. He stated that several countries attempted to prevent Azerbaijan from restoring its territorial integrity. According to him, Azerbaijan resisted these pressures because the will of a nation seeking to protect its independence and sovereignty cannot be broken. "The will of a people striving to protect their independence and identity cannot be broken," Aliyev emphasized. The president said he was familiar with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s position and had discussed the issue with him during Zelenskyy’s visit to Azerbaijan. Aliyev reiterated that Baku supports Ukraine’s sovereignty and internationally recognized borders. "Azerbaijan’s position remains unchanged. We have always supported, support, and will continue to support the territorial integrity of Ukraine," he stated. He added that Azerbaijan provides assistance to Ukraine not for publicity but because of humanitarian considerations.

Aliyev stated that the Baku Initiative Group (BIG) has drawn international attention to colonial policies and rejected accusations that the organization interferes in France’s internal affairs. The president recalled that when he first participated in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, he was told that human rights issues could not be considered internal matters of states. According to Aliyev, Azerbaijan applies the same principle today when discussing colonialism and inequality. "When the BIG speaks about colonial exploitation and inequality policies, the Azerbaijani government is already accused of interfering in France’s internal affairs," Aliyev stated. He described the organization as one of the most active NGOs addressing these issues internationally. Aliyev claimed that France’s overseas territories have experienced long-term colonial consequences, including nuclear testing in Polynesia. He stated that hundreds of people have suffered as a result of these actions and criticized what he described as a contradiction between France’s statements on human rights and its policies. The president argued that journalists who attempted to report on issues related to territories such as New Caledonia and Polynesia faced pressure and restrictions. According to Aliyev, the media has an important role in highlighting colonial issues. "The role of the media here is very important. The media must find the courage to fight against this colonial policy," he stated. He emphasized that Azerbaijan’s concerns regarding France are not limited to the BIG’s activities but are connected to broader disagreements, including Paris’s approach toward Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and the former unrecognized "Nagorno-Karabakh Republic." Aliyev stated that in the 21st century, colonial systems should not exist and argued that peoples should have the right to preserve their identity, language, and traditions. He also compared Azerbaijan’s historical experience under the Russian Empire and Soviet rule with its current independent status. According to Aliyev, Azerbaijan’s transformation after independence demonstrates the difference between colonial dependence and sovereignty.

Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan and Japan have significant potential for expanding cooperation, including in energy, defense, and industrial sectors. The president noted that Azerbaijani oil supplies to Japan have become increasingly important due to disruptions in global energy routes. He emphasized that Azerbaijan and Japan have a history of cooperation, particularly through Japanese companies involved in industrial projects in Azerbaijan. Aliyev recalled participating in the presentation of a major power plant constructed by Japanese companies and said that further cooperation could be developed. According to him, defense industry cooperation is one possible area for expansion. "We can work in the defense industry sector. We can conduct mutual exchanges, and we can establish joint ventures," Aliyev stated. He acknowledged that bilateral contacts have decreased in recent years but argued that significant potential remains. The president emphasized that stronger cooperation requires increased communication between government officials and business communities.

Aliyev emphasized that Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan relations are based on friendship, brotherhood, and shared historical ties. The president stated that his close relations with President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev have contributed to raising bilateral cooperation to a higher level. Aliyev praised Uzbekistan’s support for the reconstruction process in Karabakh, recalling that the first assistance came through the construction of a school named after Mirza Ulughbeg in Fuzuli. He noted that other Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan, later contributed to reconstruction projects. According to Aliyev, cultural and linguistic similarities between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan create a strong foundation for cooperation. "When I look at the inscriptions there, I see that no translation is needed; our languages are also similar to each other," Aliyev stated. The president highlighted economic cooperation, including the creation of a joint investment fund worth $500 million and projects involving Azerbaijan’s State Oil Company (SOCAR) in Uzbekistan. He expressed hope that exploration activities at the Ustyurt field would produce positive results.Aliyev also praised Mirziyoyev’s role in strengthening Azerbaijan’s ties with Central Asia, noting that Azerbaijan has become a full member of the Central Asia-Azerbaijan consultative format. According to him, this cooperation has strategic importance for transport, logistics, and economic integration.

The President of Azerbaijan stated that no major regional project can be implemented without active cooperation between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan. Aliyev expressed appreciation for Kazakhstan’s support in the reconstruction of Karabakh, recalling that the art center in Fuzuli was named after Kurbangazy, a prominent figure in Kazakh culture. He noted that the facility was inaugurated together with President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and thanked the Kazakh people for their assistance. The president emphasized that relations between Baku and Astana are based on broad regional and bilateral cooperation, particularly due to their shared position as Caspian Sea states. "No project in this region is possible without active contacts between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan," Aliyev stated. He added that both countries are working on expanding infrastructure capabilities and improving connectivity. According to Aliyev, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Georgia, and Türkiye have already established a cooperation format focused on issues such as transportation tariffs, digitalization, customs procedures, and logistics development. The president highlighted the importance of agreements signed with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan regarding the construction of an energy cable along the bottom of the Caspian Sea. He stated that feasibility studies for the project are currently underway. Aliyev also mentioned discussions on building a fiber-optic cable between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, saying that the project would contribute to digital transformation, artificial intelligence development, and data infrastructure across the wider region. He noted that Kazakhstan’s oil exports through Azerbaijan demonstrate the close economic relationship between the two countries. "Today, the two countries are in close contact and cooperating," Aliyev stated. The president also praised Kazakhstan’s development under President Tokayev’s leadership, recalling his visit to the historic city of Turkistan and expressing admiration for efforts to preserve cultural heritage.

Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan’s growing international role is based on reliability, balanced diplomacy, and maintaining trust with different partners. The president emphasized that Azerbaijan’s partners understand that Baku’s positions are transparent and predictable. According to Aliyev, Azerbaijan has developed a reputation as a country that provides assistance whenever it has the ability to do so, both politically and materially. He stressed that confidentiality is an important element of Azerbaijan’s diplomatic approach. "If there is a leak, it does not originate from us," Aliyev stated. The president argued that trust has become a key factor allowing Azerbaijan to contribute to regional processes and mediation efforts. He added that Baku intends to continue supporting peace and cooperation wherever possible.

Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan’s relations with Central Asian countries are becoming increasingly important within broader geopolitical and economic developments. He emphasized that cooperation between Azerbaijan and Central Asia is supported by historical, cultural, and economic connections. According to Aliyev, Azerbaijan’s participation in Central Asian cooperation formats demonstrates the growing importance of ties between the South Caucasus and Central Asian regions. He noted that transport corridors, energy projects, and digital initiatives are strengthening links between these regions. The president stated that Azerbaijan’s geographical position allows it to serve as a bridge between different regions, particularly through the development of the Middle Corridor.

Aliyev emphasized that Azerbaijan’s foreign policy is based on balanced relations with different international actors and expanding mutually beneficial partnerships. He stated that Baku seeks cooperation with countries in Europe, Asia, and neighboring regions while maintaining its independent foreign policy approach. According to Aliyev, Azerbaijan’s partnerships with Türkiye, Russia, China, Central Asian countries, and European states demonstrate the country’s ability to maintain dialogue with different actors. The president highlighted energy, transportation, security, and economic cooperation as key areas shaping Azerbaijan’s international engagement.

Aliyev concluded his remarks by emphasizing the importance of trust, sovereignty, and regional cooperation as the foundation of Azerbaijan’s foreign policy. He stated that Azerbaijan’s experience after decades of conflict shaped its approach toward international issues, particularly regarding territorial integrity and respect for sovereignty. According to Aliyev, Azerbaijan seeks peace based on international law while continuing to defend its national interests. The president reiterated that regional stability requires cooperation among neighboring states and expressed support for initiatives aimed at strengthening connectivity and economic integration.