Baku Issues Global Call for Green Development, Digital Transformation, and Sustainable Cooperation
Baku, The Gulf Observer: The 13th meeting of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA) Think Tank Forum continued its deliberations in Baku under the theme “Resonance of Development and Security: Regional Cooperation and Governance in the Institutional Transformation of CICA.”
The session, moderated by Zhao Long, Deputy Director of the Shanghai Institute for International Studies, centered on the topic “Supply Chain Cooperation Amid Green and Digital Transformation.”
In his virtual address, Chheng Kimlong, President of the Asian Vision Institute of Cambodia, underscored the urgency of eliminating geopolitical risks and closing development gaps across Asia. He noted that the region’s rapid economic growth, combined with its focus on innovation, has made Asian countries models of digital technology adoption and green policy implementation.
“Asia’s population is aging significantly, but certain countries still possess large, young populations that can drive economic growth through the demographic dividend. However, the key to fully realizing this dividend lies in equipping this younger generation with the skills and education necessary to effectively adopt and leverage digital technologies,” he stressed.
Joining the meeting online, Y.N. Jayarathna of Sri Lanka’s Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute of International Relations and Strategic Studies highlighted the crucial role of maritime cooperation. He emphasized the importance of secure and efficient ports, stable supply chains, and robust maritime and land infrastructure in bolstering Asia’s economic position.
Shahmar Hajiyev, Head of Department at the Center of Analysis of International Relations, outlined renewable energy development as a top national priority for Azerbaijan. He noted that the upcoming COP29 climate conference in Baku has provided strong momentum for accelerating the country’s green transition, emphasizing renewable energy as vital for both sustainable economic growth and environmental protection.
Other speakers underlined that multilateral partnerships remain essential for advancing green development, digital transformation, and long-term regional cooperation.
The forum will continue its discussions on key issues shaping Asia’s economic and security landscape.
