The 7th ADA University Policy Forum
Baku organized the 7th ADA University Policy Forum, held from April 7 to 9, 2025, hosted by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations (AIR Center), Baku. I was honored to be invited to this important conference demonstrating Azerbaijan’s strategic vision amid a rapidly evolving global landscape. The forum summoned over 80 international experts from relevant fields, who flew to Baku from 44 different countries, underlining Azerbaijan’s growing role not only in the region but also in global policy discussions. It was for the first time that the forum extended its sessions to Khankendi, the capital of the Karabagh region, a clear example of Azerbaijan’s commitment to the region’s post-conflict reconstruction and reintegration of this historic territory
The first day of the event opened on April 8 at Karabagh University, a recently constructed university, where two key panels discussed “Geopolitical Changes and Their Impact on Regional Sovereignty” and “The New World Order: Expectations from Economic Transformation and the Digital Revolution.” These discussions focused on shifts in global power balances, regional stability, economic independence, and the potential of digital technologies. The selection of Khankendi as a platform underlines Azerbaijan’s open dialogue policy and international collaboration in restoring the Karabagh region’s physical, intellectual, and cultural architecture.
A Look at Azerbaijan’s Foreign Policy
The participation of His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan on April 9 at ADA University in Baku was very significant and very encouraging. His replies to the questions by the participants pronounced a transparent and comprehensible foreign policy structure focused on sovereignty, regional stability, economic divergence, and peacebuilding.
He reiterated Azerbaijan’s victory in restoring its territorial integrity through its own endeavors, underlining the significance of responsible international cooperation and multilateral dialogue in undertaking today’s complicated geopolitical challenges, including nationalism, weakening international law, and climate complications. The president’s vision encourages a strong and flexible Azerbaijan that takes advantage of the economic and digital revolution to secure sustainable development and national independence.
He highlighted strategic cooperation based on mutual respect, particularly with countries that honor Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and understand its territorial integrity. This incorporates ties with the Global South, particularly through cooperation in Africa under the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). He also disclosed tensions with Western institutions like the European Commission, refusing extraneous influence and demanding and expecting just, steady, and stable diplomacy.
Overall, Azerbaijan’s foreign policy, as presented by H.E. President Ilham Aliyev, is independent, practical, sensible, and globally connected, focusing on maneuvering and shaping the emerging world order.
The conference also spotlighted exceptional developments in the Karabagh region. The visitors also toured the newly built infrastructure in Khankendi, including modern roads, tunnels, and other public facilities that increase connectivity and economic outlook. The recently inaugurated Fuzuli International Airport was exhibited as an essential link integrating Karabagh with national and international transport. Karabakh University, reinvigorated as a pivot for higher education and research, constitutes a foundation for the intellectual and cultural resurgence, essential to the region’s sustainable future.
The 7th ADA University Policy Forum not only proceeded with analytical discussions on the new world order but also brilliantly pictured Azerbaijan’s strategic foreign policy and constantly growing achievements. The integration of Khankendi into the Forum’s program embodied a new chapter of peace, cooperation, and development for the Karabakh region. Azerbaijan’s foreign policy, as communicated by H.E. President Aliyev, is firmly based on sovereignty, strength, and sustainable growth, positioning the country as a visionary and proactive actor in shaping regional and global stability.
The forum’s triumph articulates the combined dedication of all organizers, guests, and participants to encourage dialogue, engage with communities, and conceive a successful and affluent future for Azerbaijan and its neighbors in the region.
Recognizing the Key Contributors
Profound gratitude to His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev for his dynamic engagement and indispensable insights during the forum. His dynamic leadership and strategic vision have sought to silhouette Azerbaijan’s role in international politics, led by a solid commitment to national sovereignty, regional stability, and productive global dialogue. His Excellency’s commitment to rehabilitating and strengthening the liberated territories remains a testimony to his extensive vision of an integrated, booming, and strong Azerbaijan.
Appreciation is also due to Professor Shahin Bayramov, the rector of Karabagh University, and Mr. Emin Huseynov, the special representative of the president in the liberated districts, whose untiring efforts are contributing to the ongoing reconstruction, educational growth, and long-term resettlement of the Karabagh region. Their assistance and contributions reflect the combined devotion of Azerbaijan’s leadership to support sustainable growth, peace, and development in the post-conflict territories of Azerbaijan.
This brilliant conference owes much to the devoted efforts of its organizers. Special appreciation goes to ADA University and its rector, Ambassador Hafiz Pashayev, and Vice Rector Dr. Fariz Ismailzade, whose leadership has been phenomenal in instituting the forum as a leading platform for international policy dialogue. A special thanks to Miss Sabina and Mr. Tural as well for the great coordination throughout the conference.
The AIR Center, chaired by Dr. Farid Shafiyev, played a critical role in coordinating the event and fostering expert engagement. Special thanks are due to the chairman and his team, including Mr. Shahmar Hajiyev and Mr. Vasif Huseynov.
My special gratitude to ADA University’s team, including Dr. Fariz Ismailzade and Miss Sabina, for inviting me to this interesting conference. As a PhD researcher, I am particularly indebted for the opportunity to participate in distinguished discussions and to connect with scholars from across the globe.
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Sheraz Mehmood Khan is a Research Scholar and a candidate for a PhD in International Relations at Western Caspian University, Baku, Azerbaijan.