The Economic Reforms Analysis and Communication Center (ERACC) of the Republic of Azerbaijan continued its regional public discussions on “Economic Reforms in Azerbaijan: Achievements and Prospects” for the Aran economic region. The event, held in Mingachevir, brought together nearly 300 participants, including entrepreneurs, municipal representatives, and community members from Mingachevir, Yevlakh, Agjabadi, Agdash, Barda, Goychay, Kurdamir, Ujar, and Zardab.
The discussion began with a visit to the monument of national leader Heydar Aliyev, where floral tributes were laid. Mingachevir City Executive Authority head Niyazi Bayramov welcomed the attendees, emphasizing that under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, significant achievements have been made in social and economic development, particularly in the regions. He noted that substantial work has been carried out to ensure the comprehensive development of the Aran economic region and Mingachevir city, and that these efforts continue successfully.
The floor was then given to Elkhan Mikayilov, Sector Manager at the Service of the Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan on Economic Policy and Industry Issues. Mikayilov stated that the main objective of the ongoing regional discussions is to enhance the effectiveness of reforms by supporting the initiatives of entrepreneurs, municipalities, and other stakeholders. He highlighted that the Strategic Roadmaps approved by President Ilham Aliyev in December of the previous year, and currently being successfully implemented, contribute to improving living standards, strengthening the economic potential of the regions, creating a favorable business environment, and addressing socio-economic challenges. Mikayilov added that approximately 150 reform measures were implemented across Azerbaijan in 2016–2017, covering areas such as taxation, customs, business environment improvements, suspension of inspections, licensing system enhancements, and more. He emphasized that the development of entrepreneurship is a priority, with economic incentives and preferential mechanisms activated, alongside attention to banking sector development and financial stability.
During the discussion, Zaur Gardashov, Manager of the Azexport portal at ERACC, provided a detailed presentation on the portal’s activities, recent achievements, and the “ONE-STOP” Export Support Center. Fariz Ahmadov, Sector Manager at the Ministry of Economy, presented on the ministry’s work in the region under the theme “Supporting the Development of Entrepreneurship, Reforms to Improve the Business Environment, and Achieved Results.”
Following the presentations, participants were given the opportunity to ask questions, which were answered by the speakers, allowing direct engagement between local entrepreneurs, municipal representatives, and the community.
It is noteworthy that ERACC concluded its public discussion season, which started in September of this fiscal year. Over just three months, nearly 2,000 entrepreneurs, municipal representatives, and community members participated in discussions aimed at broadening public awareness of ongoing reforms, organizing direct dialogues, providing information and education, strengthening public-private dialogue, and delivering clear messages to society. Regional discussions on “Economic Reforms in Azerbaijan: Achievements and Prospects” were held in 56 districts, including Agdam, Shaki, Guba, Ismayilli, Ganja, Sumgait, Shirvan, Lankaran, and Mingachevir, with presentations by ERACC department heads and analysts. These sessions also provided a platform for entrepreneurs and local residents to raise and discuss their concerns.