First day of 2nd Azerbaijan International Investment Forum concludes

The first day of the 2nd Azerbaijan International Investment Forum (AIIF 2026), held in Baku under the patronage of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, has concluded.

According to Report, citing the Ministry of Economy, Deputy Prime Minister Samir Sharifov read out President Ilham Aliyev's address to the forum participants at the opening ceremony. The first day featured extensive discussions on key issues on the global economic agenda, Azerbaijan's investment opportunities, the development of regional and international ties, and prospects for cooperation across various economic sectors.

At the forum's opening session, Economy Minister Mikayil Jabbarov presented Azerbaijan's strategic position amid global economic changes, opportunities for regional connectivity and the country's investment potential during a session titled "Restoring Trust in a Fragmented World: Azerbaijan as a Strategic Bridge between Regions."

Economist and strategist Nouriel Roubini, CEO of Roubini Macro Associates, and Pedro Vargas David, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Euronews, took part in a panel discussion on global economic prospects.

Valerio De Molli, CEO and Managing Partner of The European House – Ambrosetti, delivered a presentation titled "Azerbaijan and the South Caucasus: A Central Hub for Investment Growth." The presentation highlighted investment growth opportunities in Azerbaijan and the South Caucasus, regional connectivity and the changing role of the region in the global economic system.

A high-level panel discussion titled "Shaping the Future of Global Growth, Investment and Connectivity" featured an exchange of views on the impact of global economic and geopolitical developments on economic growth, investment and connectivity, as well as the development of regional cooperation and emerging economic opportunities. At the conclusion of the session, Azerbaijani organizations and foreign companies and partners signed documents envisaging cooperation in various areas.

The first day of the forum also featured panel sessions on industrial platforms and free economic zones; the Middle Corridor; artificial intelligence, innovation and digital transformation; the South Caucasus-Central Asia strategic partnership; capital markets; regional energy connectivity and the green transition; international financial cooperation; agribusiness; and critical raw materials and global economic security.

Overall, the first day of AIIF 2026 featured discussions on global economic challenges and investment prospects, highlighted Azerbaijan's regional economic and investment opportunities, and saw expanded international cooperation across various areas.

The forum will continue on September 26.