AIIF session focuses on Azerbaijan as strategic gateway between regions

A session titled "Restoring Trust in a Fragmented World: Azerbaijan as a Strategic Gateway Between Regions" was held as part of the Second Azerbaijan International Investment Forum under the patronage of President Ilham Aliyev.

According to Report, citing the Ministry of Economy, Economy Minister Mikayil Jabbarov highlighted changes in the global economic environment, Azerbaijan's role in regional and international economic relations, expansion of investment opportunities and the country's position in production and regional value chains.

It was noted that stability and macroeconomic resilience in Azerbaijan, the country's growing international standing, strategic projects with cross-border significance and the fulfillment of commitments provide a solid foundation for productive investment and deeper integration into regional value chains.

Azerbaijan's energy, transport and logistics capabilities are also strengthening its role in interregional economic cooperation and the development of new investment links.

The session included a high-level discussion titled "Global Economic Outlook" between economist and strategist Nouriel Roubini, CEO of Roubini Macro Associates, and Pedro Vargas David, Chairman of the Board of Euronews. They discussed changes in the global economic landscape and key trends affecting economic development and investment worldwide.

Valerio De Molli, CEO and Managing Partner of The European House – Ambrosetti & TEHA Group, also delivered a presentation titled "Azerbaijan and the South Caucasus: A Central Hub for Investment Growth."

During a high-level panel discussion titled "Shaping the Future of Global Growth, Investment and Connectivity," moderated by Euronews Managing Editor Jane Witherspoon, Jabbarov said Azerbaijan was systematically advancing regional integration through its peace agenda, the development of transport and logistics, and the creation of a digital economy environment.

He noted that the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway had been reconstructed and its capacity increased several times, while the Baku International Sea Trade Port had been expanded. As a result, Azerbaijan's transit volumes have reached their highest levels in recent years.

Jabbarov also highlighted opportunities offered by the Alat Free Economic Zone, as well as measures aimed at diversifying exports, expanding sales markets and reducing capital and operating costs for investors and entrepreneurs. He said investment promotion mechanisms were being directed toward priority sectors.

The panel also included Uzbekistan's Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade Laziz Kudratov, Pakistan's Federal Minister for Communications Aleem Khan, North Macedonia's Minister of Economy and Labor Besar Durmishi, Syria's Minister of Economy and Industry Mohammad Nidal al-Shaar, and Tajikistan's Minister of Economic Development and Trade Abdurahmon Abdurahmonzoda.

Participants exchanged views on the impact of global economic and geopolitical developments on national economies, the expansion of regional cooperation and investment ties, and the creation of new economic opportunities. Roubini also contributed to the discussion as an expert.