The forum "Industry 4.0 - Industry of the Future: Technology and Human Potential" has taken place

On July 11, the Center for Analysis and Coordination of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4SIM) under the Ministry of Economy held an international forum "Industry 4.0 - Industry of the Future: Technologies and Human Potential".

This was reported by Oxu.Az with reference to the press service of the economic department of Azerbaijan.

Representatives of relevant state and international organizations, entrepreneurs participated in the forum.

Speaking at the forum, Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov emphasized that the development model implemented in the country under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, against the background of global challenges and new trends, strengthens the socio-economic potential of Azerbaijan, and the economy is progressively developing.

It was noted that the results of the successful implementation of our country's socio-economic development strategy are also confirmed in the latest reports of international rating agencies. The growth of Azerbaijan's positions is due to the diversification of the economy and the reduction of its dependence on oil and gas revenues. This, in turn, accelerates the application of elements of the fourth industrial revolution, creating a solid foundation for the development of knowledge-intensive and high-skilled industries.

It was also noted that artificial intelligence, big data, robotics, the Internet of Things, and cloud technologies are not only technical innovations but also factors that completely change the growth model of economies. These challenges are also relevant for our country. The creation of industrial and technological parks, the definition of the digital economy as one of the main directions of the country's socio-economic strategy, the opening of the 4SIM Center in Azerbaijan, and digitalization initiatives are part of this transformation.

It was emphasized that given the state priority of digital economy development, the adaptation of the private sector to new requirements is especially important. Work is being carried out in our country to support technological development, simplify administrative procedures in the field of entrepreneurship, tax incentives, subsidies, financial support for the real sector, and other measures.

The Minister of Economy noted that the development of human capital is at the core of digital transformation. To solve this task, programs aimed at providing citizens with new knowledge and skills are being implemented in our country.

4SIM Executive Director Fariz Jafarov in his presentation spoke about the triple approach necessary for industrial transformation - business, technology, and organizational transformation, and also presented information about the significance of the "Industry 4.0 Training Program".

As part of the event, the founder of METAK company Alik Kerimov, who successfully completed the pilot phase of the "Industry 4.0 Training Program", Azerfloat CEO Emil Hasanov, and STP Group of Companies CEO Alakbar Abbasly spoke about the positive impact of the program on the activities and productivity of enterprises.

International expert Andres Kadoska presented a report "How are transformation initiatives implemented in the world? Industry 4.0 Centers and support programs". The importance of steps taken in Azerbaijan against the background of international experience was emphasized.

As part of the event, a ceremony was held for signing cooperation documents between 4SIM and partners in the field of technology development, ecosystem, and human capital. The signed protocols of intent and memorandums of understanding with technology companies Festo, Koç Digital, MEXT Technology Center, Honeywell, SMC, as well as the Azerbaijan Banks Association, Azerbaijan Business Development Fund, Sabah City, Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University, ADA University, Economic University, Baku Higher Oil School, Azerbaijan Technical University, and Baku Engineering University will serve to establish and develop cooperation with 4SIM.

Within the framework of the forum, panel discussions were organized dedicated to global trends in the digital economy. The discussion, moderated by international expert Cengiz Ulubash, was attended by MEXT Technology Center Head Efe Erdem, Honeywell Regional Manager Oktay Basher, Qatar Development Bank Executive Director for SME Development Dr. Hamad Salem Mejeger, and Deputy Head of SOCAR's Operational Procurement and Supply Department Elchin Musayev. Participants exchanged views on regional experience, the economic impact of implementing modern technologies, and cooperation opportunities.

As part of the event, an exhibition of technological solutions from local and international companies and startups was organized. More than 10 companies presented their developments in the field of Industry 4.0. Of particular interest was the