The Economic Reforms Analysis and Communication Center (CAERC), in collaboration with the Institute of Economics of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS), organized a roundtable titled “Strategic Roadmaps: Theory and Practice.”

The event aimed to provide a scientific evaluation of the reforms outlined in Azerbaijan’s Strategic Roadmaps, based on methodologies developed by ANAS’s Institute of Economics.

The roundtable opened with welcoming remarks from Vusal Gasimli, Executive Director of CAERC. Following this, Professor Nazim Muzafarli, Director of the Institute of Economics, delivered a presentation on “The Liberalization Potential of Azerbaijan’s Economy and the Main Vectors of Strategic Roadmaps.”

Discussions highlighted the economic reforms implemented under President Ilham Aliyev’s leadership, emphasizing that macroeconomic and financial stability, improved social welfare, and stronger international rankings are outcomes of well-targeted and irreversible economic reforms.

Participants noted that Azerbaijan’s economic development began in 1993 under National Leader Heydar Aliyev, whose reforms established a favorable investment climate, modernized the oil sector, and enabled substantial capital investment from oil revenues. President Ilham Aliyev’s ongoing reforms have maintained macroeconomic stability, increased strategic currency reserves, and enhanced the business environment.

The roundtable also examined sector-specific aspects of the Strategic Roadmaps. Experts observed that state support for the non-oil sector has boosted Azerbaijan’s export potential, strengthened food security, and improved employment in regional areas. Expansion of industrial capacity, establishment of industrial zones and techno-parks, and investments in the industrial sector have further supported economic growth.

International recognition of these reforms was also highlighted. The Doing Business report evaluated Azerbaijan’s business reforms positively, with the country advancing eight positions to rank 57th, placing it among the most reform-oriented nations. Similarly, improvements were observed in Global Competitiveness, Economic Freedom, Inclusive Development, and Fitch credit ratings, securing Azerbaijan’s leading position in the CIS region.

The discussions included representatives from key government institutions involved in implementing Strategic Roadmaps, as well as academic economists, providing both practical and scientific perspectives on the reforms.