Transforming Liberated Lands into a Space of Progress is a Core Pillar of Azerbaijan’s State Policy: President Ilham Aliyev

Baku, The Gulf Observer: President Ilham Aliyev of the Republic of Azerbaijan, in a powerful address to the participants of the 6th plenary meeting of the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities (the GlobE Network) under the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, reflected on the long-standing consequences of Armenia’s military aggression and underscored Azerbaijan’s commitment to justice, sovereignty, and regional stability.

“For many years, Azerbaijan was subjected to military aggression by Armenia. During the occupation of our lands, a policy of ethnic cleansing was carried out, and numerous crimes against humanity were committed against our people,” President Aliyev stated. “These facts were a clear violation of the fundamental principles of international law and human rights.”

He further noted the systematic and illegal exploitation of Azerbaijan’s natural resources in the formerly occupied territories, as well as widespread corruption and the intentional destruction of critical infrastructure.

“The illegal exploitation of our natural resources, large-scale corruption, and the deliberate destruction of infrastructure were pervasive in the occupied territories for years,” he said.

President Aliyev highlighted that the Patriotic War of 2020 and the anti-terrorist measures of 2023 led to the full restoration of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

“The end of the occupation marked the beginning of a new era, accompanied by the restoration of sovereignty and justice, as well as the return of life and the rule of law to those territories,” the President affirmed.

He emphasized that transforming the liberated lands into vibrant, progressive regions remains a central pillar of Azerbaijan’s state policy. “Today, Azerbaijan continues its constructive efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region,” President Aliyev concluded.

The President’s message was delivered in the context of a global forum focused on strengthening international cooperation in the fight against corruption, further underscoring the interconnectedness of justice, rule of law, and sustainable peace.