Azerbaijan expanding its portfolio of PPP projects in transport, energy, and digital infrastructure

Azerbaijan expresses its readiness to work closely with the member states of the Islamic Development Bank Group (IsDB), as well as with private sector partners, to develop practical, investment-oriented, and mutually beneficial cooperation in the infrastructure sector, Deputy Minister of Economy Samad Bashirli said at a panel discussion during the Bank Group's annual meetings in Baku, Report informs.

The deputy minister emphasized that Azerbaijan has firsthand experience of the transformative power of regional connectivity.

"The development of the Middle Corridor, the expansion of transit and logistics potential, the modernization of transport infrastructure, and the promotion of industrial zones all demonstrate our commitment to regional integration and sustainable economic development. At the same time, Azerbaijan is laying the necessary foundation for public-private partnerships," Bashirli stated.

The deputy minister noted that the PPP mechanism is increasingly being perceived as a key tool for attracting private capital into infrastructure, improving project efficiency, and implementing innovative financial models.

"On this basis, Azerbaijan has developed a growing portfolio of PPP projects covering water resources, the environment, transport, tourism, education, and social infrastructure. Looking to the future, we see significant potential for expanding PPPs in transport corridors, renewable energy, water security, logistics hubs, climate-resilient infrastructure, and digital networks. The message is clear: no country can achieve sustainable prosperity in isolation. Connectivity is not only about roads, railways, ports, power lines, or digital networks. It is, above all, about building trust, fostering shared economic interests, and ensuring that the benefits of development extend beyond national borders. Based on this, Azerbaijan stands ready to closely collaborate with the IDB Group member countries and the private sector to promote practical, investment-focused, and mutually beneficial cooperation in infrastructure," concluded Bashirli.

He expressed confidence that cross-border PPPs can act as a significant link between government priorities and private sector capabilities, between national development strategies and regional integration, and between today's infrastructure needs and tomorrow's shared prosperity.