President Ilham Aliyev Extends New Year Greetings, Highlights Achievements and Progress in 2025

Baku, The Gulf Observer: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev has extended heartfelt greetings to the people of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the New Year 2026 and the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis, reflecting on the nation’s achievements over the past year and reaffirming confidence in continued progress.

In his address, the President described 2025 as a year of major accomplishments, noting that the people of Azerbaijan have lived in peace, security, and stability, strengthened by the unity between the government and citizens. He expressed confidence that 2026 would also be a successful year, with all national priorities being fulfilled.

The President highlighted the fifth anniversary of Azerbaijan’s Victory in the Patriotic War, emphasizing the historic significance of ending thirty years of Armenian occupation and restoring the country’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and national dignity. During the military parade commemorating this milestone, the progress in army development over recent years was showcased, demonstrating that the Azerbaijani Armed Forces are now fully equipped and capable of successfully fulfilling any mission.

He underlined that while Azerbaijan does not prepare for new wars, in today’s global environment, every nation must prioritize its security. Over the past five years, the Armed Forces have significantly strengthened their capabilities with both domestically produced and imported military equipment, expanded special forces, and established thousands of soldiers and officers in the newly formed Commando Forces. The President paid tribute to the martyrs whose sacrifices secured the nation’s Victory.

Since the Victory, Azerbaijan has consolidated its position internationally and politically. The President noted that the Minsk Group, previously tasked with resolving the Armenia–Azerbaijan conflict, is now defunct and the Garabagh issue has been removed from the global agenda. He emphasized Azerbaijan’s peaceful approach toward Armenia, stressing that military action was taken solely to restore territorial integrity under the UN Charter and Security Council resolutions.

Significant development was reported across the country, with infrastructure, construction, and social projects underway in every region. Internationally, Azerbaijan has enhanced its standing, joining the D-8 international organization and being elected a full member of the Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, reflecting growing respect and recognition.

The President highlighted major international events hosted in Azerbaijan, including the ECO Summit in Khankendi and the Summit of the Organization of Turkic States in Gabala, reinforcing the country’s influence in regional and global affairs. He emphasized Azerbaijan’s commitment to sovereignty, independent decision-making, and equal partnerships in international relations, asserting that no external pressure can compromise the nation’s interests.

On the economic front, Azerbaijan achieved historic milestones in 2025, with foreign exchange reserves surpassing 80 billion US dollars and external debt reduced to 6.3 percent of GDP. Credit ratings and investment outlooks have been upgraded, reflecting strong economic stability. The Great Return Program is progressing, with approximately 70,000 people resettled in the liberated territories, benefiting from improved living conditions.

Acknowledging the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis, the President extended greetings to Azerbaijanis worldwide, emphasizing the enduring connection between the Motherland and Azerbaijanis living abroad, and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to their welfare.

Concluding his address, the President wished all citizens and Azerbaijanis around the world peace, happiness, and prosperity for the New Year. He urged continued unity and dedication to national progress, affirming that the country’s achievements are built on the collective effort of its people.

“Happy holidays and a prosperous New Year to all Azerbaijanis!” the President said.