Azerbaijan Hosts International Roundtable Marking 20th Anniversary of “World of Diplomacy” Journal
Baku, The Gulf Observer: An international roundtable commemorating the 20th anniversary of the “World of Diplomacy” journal, the official publication of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, was held on July 8–9 in Baku and Shusha.
The event brought together high-level representatives from the Foreign Ministries of 16 countries, alongside leading international relations scholars, think tank experts, and editors of foreign policy journals, to exchange perspectives on diplomatic communication and the role of strategic publications in shaping foreign policy narratives.
Opening the roundtable, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov emphasized that the “World of Diplomacy” journal has played a crucial role over the past two decades in articulating Azerbaijan’s foreign policy priorities and conveying its principled and pragmatic approach to international affairs.
Minister Bayramov highlighted the independent and balanced foreign policy pursued under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, which has enhanced Azerbaijan’s stature and influence on the global stage. He also addressed new geopolitical realities in the South Caucasus, emphasizing the steps taken by Azerbaijan to normalize relations with Armenia and the main challenges hindering the conclusion of a peace agreement.
The Minister further outlined the progress of major restoration and reconstruction projects underway in the liberated territories, carried out within the framework of the “Great Return” Program, which aims to revitalize regions affected by the conflict.
In his remarks, Bayramov also reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s active participation in global initiatives, referencing the country’s upcoming hosting of COP29, its successful chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), and its role as host of major future events such as the 82nd session of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), the 13th World Urban Forum, and World Environment Day.
As part of the program, participants traveled to Shusha, Azerbaijan’s cultural capital, where they observed the devastating impact of Armenia’s former occupation policy. The visit included tours of damaged infrastructure and destroyed cultural monuments, as well as briefings on current restoration efforts in the city.
Presentations were held on Shusha’s rich historical and cultural heritage, and the visit concluded with a cultural program showcasing traditional Azerbaijani music and art.
The roundtable reaffirmed the importance of diplomatic publications as tools for international dialogue and cooperation and highlighted Azerbaijan’s commitment to multilateralism, peacebuilding, and cultural preservation.
