Sectors such as science, technology and innovation occupy an important place on Azerbaijan’s development agenda.
The Chairman of the Milli Majlis (Parliament) of Azerbaijan, Sahiba Gafarova, said this during her speech at the 149th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Geneva on the topic “Using science, technology and innovation for a more peaceful and sustainable future.”
As Day.Az reports, she noted that the goals and objectives of sustainable development are included in the national development plans and strategies of Azerbaijan. Modern innovations and competitive human capital in our country are one of the five priority areas of the new strategy for socio-economic development until 2030.
According to the speaker, the driving force of development is the digital society, which supports advanced technological industries and innovations, and also expands the technological capabilities of the economy. Along with this, science, technology and innovation are an important factor in Azerbaijan’s efforts to develop renewable energy potential and create green energy zones in the Karabakh and East Zangezur regions liberated from Armenian occupation.
Sahiba Gafarova noted that against the backdrop of global challenges, states have a moral obligation to support each other’s desire for development. Since 2020, Azerbaijan has provided humanitarian, economic and technical assistance to more than 140 countries worth $330 million.
It was emphasized that within the framework of the Non-Aligned Movement Contact Group summit on combating COVID-19, held in March 2023 in Azerbaijan, President Ilham Aliyev announced two global appeals to support the post-pandemic recovery of Africa and small island developing states. These calls include direct financial support, educational opportunities, capacity building and other technical means.