President Ilham Aliyev delivered his New Year address, reflecting on the significant accomplishments of 2024 while addressing pressing challenges in the South Caucasus.
The president highlighted what he described as Azerbaijan's diplomatic and political success in affirming new geopolitical realities in the region. However, he expressed concern about Armenia's actions, which could potentially destabilise the fragile peace that has been achieved.
"We affirmed these new realities diplomatically, internationally, and politically. The entire world has accepted these new realities. Therefore, Armenia's large-scale rearmament campaign, I believe, poses a new threat to the region. If we were to identify the most concerning issue for us this year, it would undoubtedly be Armenia's rearmament. There is no logical explanation for this," stated President.
In his address, President Aliyev strongly criticised what he referred to as Armenia's ongoing military build-up, warning that it could undermine peace efforts and escalate tensions in the region. He reminded the audience of the devastating consequences of past conflicts and urged Armenia to abandon what he termed a "dangerous path."
The president reiterated Azerbaijan's readiness to defend its sovereignty and prevent any possible threats to regional stability.
"Thus, I reiterate: while there is still time, they must turn back from this dangerous path. The South Caucasus must be a region of peace, tranquillity, and cooperation. Armenia's large-scale and rapid rearmament and the procurement of lethal weapons could undermine this peace, the possible peace. And I must emphasise that Azerbaijan will not merely act as a spectator regarding this matter. The 30 years of occupation, destruction, the devastation of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur, the Khojaly genocide, and the displacement of one million of our people due to Armenia’s actions will never be erased from our memory. We will never forget this. Armenia’s aggressive policies and their nature must always be considered. Thus, once again, I find it necessary to issue another warning to Armenia's leadership: refrain from this dangerous path."
President Aliyev concluded his address by stating that despite numerous challenges and external pressures, the country has successfully restored its territorial integrity and strengthened its sovereignty.
The head of state shared an optimistic outlook for the future, encouraging unity and solidarity among Azerbaijanis while extending heartfelt holiday greetings to the nation and the diaspora.
"Azerbaijan has been advancing confidently, successfully, and with dignity. These years have not been without challenges, trials, and wars. There have been unfounded accusations against us, but none of these could divert us from our path. We have restored our territorial integrity, despite the wishes of global powers. We have restored our state sovereignty, once again defying the will of major powers, and we govern our country with confidence. Those who seek to hinder us will face failure once again," Aliyev said.
"Dear compatriots,
Today is the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis. I wholeheartedly congratulate all Azerbaijanis around the world on this occasion. I wish my dear people good health, prosperity, happiness, and success. Happy Holidays!"
The 17th Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) is set to be held in Khankendi, Azerbaijan, said Rovshan Mirzayev, Deputy Head of the Economic Cooperation Department of Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has praised the strong cultural and historical bonds between Iran and Azerbaijan, expressing optimism for deeper cooperation ahead of his upcoming official visit to Baku.
The city of Irpin in Ukraine has seen the successful reconstruction of its local clinic, thanks to the generous financial support of Azerbaijan. This marks a significant step in the ongoing recovery efforts in the region.
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev visited the Monument to the People's Heroes in Beijing on April 23.
The DRC and Rwanda have pledged to draft a peace deal by May 2 and stop backing armed groups, as part of new efforts to end conflict in eastern Congo.
Iran and the U.S. are set for a third round of indirect talks in Muscat, focusing on sanctions relief and guarantees over Iran’s nuclear program.
Donald Trump said talks between his envoy and Vladimir Putin made major progress toward ending the Ukraine war, urging Kyiv and Moscow to meet face-to-face.
Estonia has passed a €2.8 billion defense funding bill, raising military spending to over 5% of GDP amid growing security concerns over Russia.
George Santos, a former U.S. congressman, has been sentenced to over seven years in prison after being convicted of fraud and identity theft.
China has rolled out the world’s first 10-gigabit (10G) fixed broadband network in Xiong'an New Area, promising ultra-fast speeds and low latency through cutting-edge optical infrastructure.
The Holy Fire ceremony stands as one of Christianity's most enduring and mysterious rituals, drawing thousands of pilgrims to Jerusalem each year.
Pope Francis's relationship with Azerbaijan has evolved significantly over the years, characterized by diplomatic exchanges, promotion of religious tolerance, and peace advocacy in the Caucasus region.
Russia launched a major missile and drone assault on Kyiv overnight on April 24, killing at least twelve people and injuring 90, including children and a pregnant woman, according to Mayor Vitali Klitschko.
China’s pivot away from U.S. liquefied petroleum gas under new tariffs is shaking global energy flows, slashing demand, and fuelling a scramble for alternatives across Asia, with Middle Eastern suppliers and rival buyers seizing the moment.
On April 25, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev met with OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioğlu to discuss the South Caucasus, peace talks with Armenia, and strengthening bilateral cooperation. Aliyev emphasized dismantling the OSCE Minsk Group and securing Azerbaijan’s sovereignty.
Russia and Iran have signaled their commitment to deepen energy cooperation by working on new overland gas corridors, according to a statement from the Russian Cabinet.
Citing sustained cross-border terrorism and a recent deadly attack in Jammu and Kashmir, India has decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, a decision that marks a significant shift in regional water diplomacy.
The 17th Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) is set to be held in Khankendi, Azerbaijan, said Rovshan Mirzayev, Deputy Head of the Economic Cooperation Department of Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Israel warned on Thursday it will unleash an even wider offensive in Gaza unless Hamas frees its remaining hostages, a threat issued as Israeli airstrikes killed at least 55 people across the enclave, according to local medics.
The DRC and Rwanda have pledged to draft a peace deal by May 2 and stop backing armed groups, as part of new efforts to end conflict in eastern Congo.
Iran and the U.S. are set for a third round of indirect talks in Muscat, focusing on sanctions relief and guarantees over Iran’s nuclear program.
Donald Trump said talks between his envoy and Vladimir Putin made major progress toward ending the Ukraine war, urging Kyiv and Moscow to meet face-to-face.
Estonia has passed a €2.8 billion defense funding bill, raising military spending to over 5% of GDP amid growing security concerns over Russia.
George Santos, a former U.S. congressman, has been sentenced to over seven years in prison after being convicted of fraud and identity theft.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment