Once remembered for conflicts and risks, the South Caucasus is today a space of development and stability. Under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, the region is now one of the world’s important economic centers. Large economic projects implemented in this geography have given a serious impetus to the region’s progress. This is no coincidence. Undoubtedly, the establishment of Azerbaijan-Georgia relations on strong foundations and a neighborhood policy based on mutual trust play a significant role in strengthening stability and development in the region. The state visit of the Azerbaijani leader to Georgia also served to further strengthen this strategic partnership, create new cooperation opportunities, and ensure sustainable development in the region.
The high-level meetings held, and the reception of our country’s head with deep respect and reverence, were also remembered for the fact that this visit once again demonstrated the strategic nature of Azerbaijan-Georgia relations. As acknowledged in the neighboring country, Georgia welcomes friendly relations and strategic partnership with Azerbaijan.
First, let’s note that it was no coincidence that Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze called Ilham Aliyev a valuable friend of Georgia and considered the Azerbaijani President’s visit a great honor for his country. This is because our country’s leader has invaluable services in the development and economic progress of the region. With this message, Mr. Prime Minister once again showed that wherever Azerbaijan is, there is partnership, friendship, and cooperation.
Secondly, the South Caucasus has now become a space of peace, security, and cooperation. Long-standing conflicts in the region have been eliminated, and amidst the wars and hybrid threats existing in the world, a completely safe life has been ensured in the region. Our country’s services in creating this desired situation are undeniable. All these are clear examples of our country’s significant contributions to strengthening peace, stability, and mutually beneficial cooperation in the region.
Thirdly, since the years of independence until today, relations between Azerbaijan and Georgia have been built on principles of normal and healthy cooperation. The economic and cultural ties between our countries are a source of pride. But above all, Georgia is a friendly neighbor, friend, and reliable partner for us. This strategic partnership is of great importance for the stability and development of the region. President Ilham Aliyev openly declared that Azerbaijan and Georgia are together, as always.
Fourthly, the President emphasized that Azerbaijan has taken steps to strengthen the energy security of many countries for many years. Today, Azerbaijani gas is exported to 16 countries, and exports are still mainly carried out via Georgia. The export of oil and gas to world markets, as well as the transportation of oil resources from the eastern shores of the Caspian Sea, are also carried out through Azerbaijan and Georgia. The Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline has been successfully operating for 20 years, and the Southern Gas Corridor was implemented after that and has gained strategic importance for the region.
In addition, transport corridors have also been created along these energy corridors, and their expansion continues. The Middle Transport Corridor passes through Azerbaijan and Georgia and will be expanded as a main transport artery.
Finally, the new architecture of the South Caucasus today shows peace, development, and tranquility, reflecting an important stage in the region’s history. Undoubtedly, the role of the Azerbaijani leader in achieving these successes is great. President Ilham Aliyev’s visit to Georgia further strengthened the future prospects of the region as a whole.
Rəşad Mahmudov,
YAP İdarə Heyətinin üzvü,
Milli Məclisin deputatı