Ilham Aliyev: The escalation of geopolitical tensions continues to underscore the vulnerability of development achievements

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific remains one of the most inclusive and influential UN regional platforms, playing a vital role in advancing sustainable development, promoting regional transport connectivity, trade and economic cooperation. We are pleased to contribute to this important work, especially at a time when the multilateral approach needs to be strengthened.

As reported by AZERTAC, this was stated in the address of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev to the participants of the 82nd session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific.

"Our meeting takes place during a period of heightened global uncertainty. The escalation of geopolitical tensions and conflicts continues to underscore the fragility of international peace and security, as well as the vulnerability of development gains accumulated over decades. In this context, Azerbaijan reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.

Since my first address to this esteemed assembly in 2021, the South Caucasus has undergone profound transformations. Azerbaijan has fully restored its sovereignty and territorial integrity and initiated a peace agenda with Armenia. At the summit in Washington last August, organized by the President of the United States of America Donald Trump, historic progress was achieved in the normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Today we are witnessing the benefits of this peace. Trade relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia have been launched, and Azerbaijan is currently facilitating transit access for Armenia. Mutual visits by civil society representatives are contributing to confidence-building.

At the same time, Azerbaijan is implementing unique and large-scale reconstruction projects in the liberated territories, which were completely destroyed during the occupation. The "Great Return" program is being successfully implemented. More than 80,000 people have returned to the Karabakh and East Zangezur regions — to rebuild their lives, reunite with their homeland, study and work. However, landmines remain a serious humanitarian concern and an obstacle to development — an issue that also affects several countries in the ESCAP region and requires strengthened international cooperation. Since the end of the conflict in 2020, more than 400 Azerbaijani civilians have been killed or injured as a result of landmine explosions," the address of the head of state reads.