President Ilham Aliyev attended a solemn gathering dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan (NASA) on Monday in Baku.
The event brought together members of the Academy’s Presidium, leading scientists, and foreign guests.
In his address, President Aliyev praised the historic role of Azerbaijani science in the nation’s progress, outlining a broad vision for technological, intellectual, and defense-driven development in the coming decades.
“Science was and remains a pillar of our independence”
The head of state congratulated the academic community, noting that over eight decades, the Academy has played a leading role in advancing the country’s intellectual and scientific potential.
“The National Academy of Sciences has gone through different political eras but has always remained a source of pride and strength for Azerbaijan,” Aliyev said.
“Heydar Aliyev paid enormous attention to science – both in the Soviet years and during independence. That policy continues today.”
The president reminded that, starting in the 1970s, thousands of young Azerbaijanis were sent to study at leading universities across the Soviet Union – a tradition continued today with international scholarship programs.
“Azerbaijan has entered a new era – the era of technological power”
Turning to current priorities, Aliyev emphasized that technological progress and scientific innovation must now define Azerbaijan’s national agenda.
“The development and security of every country are determined by its technological capabilities,” he stated. “Natural resources are finite, but intellectual potential is inexhaustible – if we invest in it.”
The president called on Azerbaijani scientists to lead in artificial intelligence and digital transformation, noting that these fields are already shaping the world’s future.
“Artificial intelligence was barely discussed ten years ago. Today it is a reality, and Azerbaijan must not lag behind,” Aliyev said.
He also highlighted the growing importance of cybersecurity, calling it “physical security in a digital age.” A national Cybersecurity Center has been established, and partnerships are underway with international experts and companies.
“Strong science means strong defense”
Aliyev spoke extensively about the connection between science, industry, and defense, underscoring Azerbaijan’s growing capacity for domestic military production.
“We have opened the defense industry to the private sector, and several companies are already producing world-class equipment,” he said.
“The global demand for defense technology is growing, and Azerbaijan must seize this opportunity.”
He recalled that during the Patriotic War, Azerbaijan was among the first countries to use drones in combat on a large scale – a precedent now studied in foreign military academies.
“Today, the use of drones has become the standard in modern warfare. Azerbaijan laid that foundation,” the president noted.
Economic strength and post-war recovery
Aliyev underlined that despite a slight decline in oil output, the non-oil sector has become the driving force of the economy, helping sustain growth and independence.
He pointed out that Azerbaijan’s foreign debt is among the lowest in the world — just over 6% of GDP, while foreign reserves exceed $80 billion, sixteen times the debt volume.
“Our strong and independent economy allows us to rebuild liberated territories, develop defense capabilities, and invest in science,” he stressed.
He also cited the massive reconstruction of Karabakh and East Zangazur, where more than 30 hydroelectric plants have been built in five years, along with new solar and wind energy projects.
“By 2030, Azerbaijan’s renewable energy capacity will reach 6,000 megawatts,” Aliyev said. “This is a new industrial era for our country.”
“Our history and our language are sacred”
A significant portion of the speech was devoted to Azerbaijan’s historical and cultural identity. The president urged scientists to intensify research into Azerbaijan’s true historical geography, especially regarding territories historically inhabited by Azerbaijanis.
“The majority of toponyms in present-day Armenia have Azerbaijani origins,” Aliyev said, citing Tsarist-era maps as historical evidence.
“We must publish more works, exhibitions, and maps to show this truth to the world.”
He also returned to a long-standing concern – the preservation of the Azerbaijani language:
“Our language is ancient and rich, spoken by more than 50 million people. But we, the independent Azerbaijani state, are its main guardians. The purity of our language is the foundation of our national identity.”
“Science must serve the nation”
Concluding his address, President Aliyev urged government institutions to work more closely with scientists, ensuring that research has practical applications.
“Science must bring results – not only in publications, but in real life,” he said.
“Our scientific potential should serve economic progress, technological advancement, and national security.”
The president ended his speech by congratulating the Azerbaijani people on the 80th anniversary of the National Academy of Sciences, the upcoming Victory Day, and the Day of the Flag:
“Azerbaijan will forever be proud of its glorious victory. Our independent, strong, and confident nation will continue to build, create, and lead.”
