SHUSHA, July 19 — President Ilham Aliyev addressed the III Shusha Global Media Forum with wide-ranging remarks on Azerbaijan’s post-conflict development, regional connectivity, energy policy, and peace prospects with Armenia. The forum, which has now become a regular platform for international media dialogue, was held in the symbolic city of Shusha—considered the cultural heart of Karabakh.
Opening his remarks, Aliyev emphasized the growing importance of open, international dialogue. “This forum has already become a tradition. I hope it continues to grow in scope and participation. There is an increasing need for transparent discussion—not only on media but also on global issues,” he said.
On environmental policy, Aliyev reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to clean energy, noting the country no longer uses coal for electricity generation and is expanding solar energy production. “We’ve signed multiple investment agreements and are positioning ourselves as a future green energy hub.”
A central theme was the potential of the Zangezur Corridor, a proposed transit route through southern Armenia that would link Azerbaijan to its exclave Nakhchivan and onward to Turkey. Aliyev said Azerbaijan has nearly completed its railway to the border and expects it operational by spring 2026. “If Armenia continues to block this project, it will isolate itself not only economically but also politically,” he warned.
Aliyev framed the corridor as a vital extension of the North-South and East-West trade networks, offering an alternative to routes through Iran and Russia. “New logistics lines are opening. If realized, Zangezur will further connect Asia to Europe through Azerbaijan,” he stated.
Turning to regional peace, Aliyev reiterated that a peace treaty with Armenia is within reach but contingent on two conditions: the amendment of Armenia’s constitution to remove territorial claims and the dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Group, which was originally formed to mediate the Karabakh conflict. “We’ve agreed on the draft treaty and even proposed to initial it in Abu Dhabi. But words are not enough—concrete signatures are needed.”
Aliyev expressed concern about Armenia’s inconsistent positions. “Trust is low. My stance has never changed: Karabakh is Azerbaijan. Armenia’s views, however, have shifted. What’s the guarantee they won’t change again?”
On repatriation, Aliyev highlighted the progress of the “Great Return” policy: 18 settlements in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur are now repopulated by returnees, with infrastructure like the national grid already restored. “We’re turning this region into a paradise,” he said.
The President also praised Donald Trump, referring to him as “President of the United States,” and thanked him for his efforts in promoting peace. “We’re glad he won. We hope he finishes the job—especially draining the Washington swamp,” he added, in a pointed political aside.
He emphasized Azerbaijan’s role as a reliable international partner, both in the Muslim world and in European forums. He called for stronger engagement within the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) and reaffirmed the importance of “balancing national interests with the regional context.”
In a notable passage, Aliyev stressed the moral responsibility of leadership. “Victory must be earned daily. You must devote your life to it. That’s what makes true success.”
Finally, he expressed a desire for a peaceful, stable South Caucasus: “For too long this region has suffered. Enough is enough. It’s time we live in peace.”
The Shusha Global Media Forum, launched after the 2020 Karabakh war, has grown in prominence as a venue for Azerbaijan to shape its international media image and showcase its strategic ambitions in a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment.
