The Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication of the Republic of Azerbaijan has launched a series of regional public discussions across the country under the theme “Economic Reforms in Azerbaijan: Achievements and Prospects.”

The discussions are organized with the aim of communicating the ongoing reform process to a broader audience, facilitating direct dialogue, enhancing public awareness and understanding, strengthening public–private dialogue, and, overall, delivering accurate messages to society. The first such meeting was held in Aghdam and brought together entrepreneurs, municipal officials, and members of the public from Aghdam, Fuzuli, and Tartar districts.

The event was opened by the Head of the Executive Authority of Aghdam District, Raqub Mammadov, who welcomed the participants. Subsequently, Executive Director of the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication, Vusal Gasimli, spoke about the main objectives of initiating the regional public discussions starting from Aghdam. He noted that President Ilham Aliyev pays special attention to socio-economic developments in the regions. The recently published semi-annual monitoring and evaluation report on the implementation of the Strategic Road Maps demonstrates that key priorities have been identified for the upcoming period in terms of regional development. These include ensuring sustainable economic stability, establishing industrial zones, and increasing private investment in the regions.

Elkhan Mikayilov, Sector Head of the Service for Economic Policy and Industrial Issues under the Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, added that organizing such meetings on a continuous basis in the regions is crucial for conducting district-level analyses and promoting the development of the non-oil sector. According to him, the primary objectives of economic reforms are to ensure the sustainability, diversification, and competitiveness of the national economy.

He emphasized that a number of important decisions have been adopted to further improve the investment and business environment, enhance the legislative framework, and provide comprehensive state support to entrepreneurs. These measures have transformed Azerbaijan into one of the fastest-growing and most sustainably developing countries in recent years. Elkhan Mikayilov also recalled the establishment of a Commission aimed at improving the business environment and further strengthening the country’s position in international rankings.

During the discussions, Analyst of the Center, Nijat Hajizada, delivered a presentation on “Economic Development of the Regions.” Representatives of the Ministry of Economy, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Ministry of Taxes also attended the event.

Fariz Ahmadov, Sector Head at the Ministry of Economy, spoke on “Reforms Implemented and Results Achieved in Supporting Entrepreneurship Development and Improving the Business Environment.”

Following the speeches, questions from entrepreneurs, municipal officials, and members of the public were addressed. The participants later visited a cotton processing plant in Aghdam.

It should be noted that similar events will also be held in Sheki, Quba, Ismayilli, Ganja, Shirvan, Lankaran, and Mingachevir.