The Development of Nakhchivan Lays the Foundation for a New Stage in the Region - OPINION

The development of Nakhchivan is important not only from the perspective of domestic or regional politics, but also in geopolitical and geoeconomic aspects.

This was stated in a comment to BAKU.WS by Doctor of Philosophy in Political Sciences, political analyst Shabnam Hasanova.

According to her, the large-scale reconstruction work carried out recently in Nakhchivan has given a new impetus to the development of the autonomous republic. The renewal of infrastructure in cities and settlements, improvement of road and transport capabilities, development of social facilities, and landscaping of territories create an important foundation for the future development of Nakhchivan.

The political analyst noted that Nakhchivan also has enormous potential in terms of tourism. In her opinion, its ancient history, rich cultural heritage, historical monuments, and unique geography open up opportunities for developing various directions of tourism in the region.

Sh. Hasanova believes that increasing economic activity and creating modern tourism infrastructure in Nakhchivan can contribute to the formation of new sources of income.

"That is precisely why we must transition from the reality of blockade to the reality of economic development. Moving out of the blockade reality opens new windows of opportunity for us," the political analyst stated.

She emphasized that expanding the transport connections of Nakhchivan, which is separated from the main part of Azerbaijan, is of particular importance for the full realization of its potential. Its location between Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Iran also increases Nakhchivan's future transport, logistics, and trade opportunities.

According to the political analyst, it is extremely important to accelerate the work in Nakhchivan toward establishing the connections envisioned within the framework of TRIPP.

"The restoration of communication projects covers not only automobile and railway roads. Undoubtedly, a large-scale economic process is being formed here. In this economic process, Azerbaijan occupies a central place, and stimulating the development of Nakhchivan leads to the strengthening of its transit function," Sh. Hasanova said.

She added that as a result of the full realization of Nakhchivan's potential, the region can transform into a significant center not only for transit cargo transportation but also for receiving, storing, sorting, and redirecting cargo in various directions.

Sh. Hasanova noted that the integration of Nakhchivan into the East-West and North-South transport corridors will further strengthen Azerbaijan's position in the Eurasian transport system.

"In this context, the development of Nakhchivan means a new stage in the development of the region. Nakhchivan is today experiencing a period of new revival," the political analyst emphasized.

In her opinion, today it is not only about renewing existing infrastructure but also about changing Nakhchivan's function in the regional system. In this context, the autonomous republic holds an important place in Azerbaijan's regional strategy and global policy.

Shahana Khankishiyeva