Baku, Azerbaijan (AP) — Azerbaijan has emerged as a key diplomatic player in the South Caucasus and beyond, a status it has solidified through its strategic foreign policy and leadership in international relations. In the decades following the collapse of the Soviet Union, post-Soviet states integrated into the global political system, with Azerbaijan positioning itself as one of the few nations in the region to successfully maintain an independent and balanced foreign policy.
Azerbaijan’s Strategic Diplomacy and National Interests
According to Mikayil Mirzazada, Chairman of the Board of Plus Media Group, Azerbaijan stands out as a model for other nations that have navigated the post-Soviet landscape without falling victim to external pressures. “Azerbaijan managed to avoid being consumed by the geopolitical struggles of the region, instead using these challenges to its advantage,” Mirzazada said.
From its early years of independence, Azerbaijan has faced numerous provocations and continuous aggression from neighboring Armenia. While Armenia's leadership rallied its population with slogans like "Greater Armenia from sea to sea," Azerbaijan focused on strengthening its economy and military. This strategic approach quickly positioned Azerbaijan as a leader in the South Caucasus and a respected player on the global stage.
The Karabakh War and Azerbaijan’s Diplomatic Evolution
Following the successful liberation of its occupied territories in the Second Karabakh War and subsequent counter-terrorism operations, Azerbaijan has become a central diplomatic player in the region. “More and more countries, both neighboring and distant, are adopting the ‘Azerbaijani model’ in their foreign policies,” Mirzazada remarked. This model is characterized by maintaining neutrality in conflicts between global powers while prioritizing national interests.
As chair of the Non-Aligned Movement, Azerbaijan played a pivotal role in fostering diplomatic relations, positioning itself as a bridge between East and West. The country has successfully balanced its relationships with global powers such as the United States and European nations, while managing ties with neighboring Russia and Iran — a delicate act that has been key to Azerbaijan’s internal stability. Under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan’s pragmatic, consistent, and multi-dimensional governance approach has made the country a hub for international events, including numerous global conferences hosted in Baku and other cities.
Azerbaijan Hosts COP29: A Turning Point in Environmental Diplomacy
Now, Azerbaijan is preparing to host one of the most significant international events on the global calendar: the 29th United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) summit. This summit will be critical in the global fight against climate change, as it will focus on developing new strategies and action plans to address the climate crisis, as well as reviewing the progress of existing agreements. Mirzazada believes Azerbaijan will play a prominent role in this event, showcasing the country's commitment to environmental sustainability.
Azerbaijan’s Shift to Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development
Traditionally known for its oil and gas resources, Azerbaijan has made significant strides in transitioning to renewable energy and promoting environmental sustainability. A key goal of its climate strategy is to reduce its carbon footprint and increase the share of renewable energy in its overall production by 2030. Investments in green energy, including wind and solar power, are central to this strategy. One notable example is the development of wind energy projects in the Caspian Sea, which is opening new frontiers in the energy sector.
As a signatory to the Paris Agreement, Azerbaijan is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions over the next six years. The country is also undertaking large-scale infrastructure projects and implementing comprehensive measures in waste management and water conservation. Under its “National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy,” Azerbaijan has prioritized protecting ecosystems, expanding forest cover, and adapting agricultural practices to the realities of climate change.
COP29: A Strategic Platform for Azerbaijan’s Environmental Leadership
For Azerbaijan, the upcoming COP29 summit is not only an opportunity to present its environmental policies to the international community but also a strategic platform to showcase its achievements in the fight against climate change. "Azerbaijan is positioning itself to lead regional efforts to combat climate change, particularly through projects supporting the transition to clean energy in the Caucasus and Central Asia," Mirzazada said.
The summit will also provide Azerbaijan with the opportunity to establish new international partnerships in the renewable energy sector. Collaboration with European and Asian countries on energy transit and environmental projects will be crucial. The move toward green diplomacy and participation in COP events is vital for Azerbaijan, both in terms of environmental policy and its broader geopolitical strategy. COP29 will offer Azerbaijan the chance to advance innovative ecological approaches and take on a more prominent role in the global fight against climate change.