Voice of economic diplomacy in Khankendi

Hosting the 17th summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in Khankendi is far more than just another diplomatic event for Azerbaijan—it is a powerful geopolitical statement. Holding an international forum in a territory that was occupied for many years signals that the new reality established by Baku in the region has gained global recognition. This summit marks the pinnacle of Azerbaijan’s achievements in the post-conflict era. The visit of the highest-ranking leaders from ECO member states to Khankendi confirms that the recently liberated areas are being transformed into safe, stable regions with strong development potential.

The summit also clearly demonstrates Azerbaijan’s decisive steps in asserting its role as a regional leader. Within the framework of the ECO, critical issues such as energy, transport, trade, and logistics are discussed, with Azerbaijan’s role as the host country carrying strategic significance. This further reinforces the country’s position as a key transit hub along the East-West and North-South corridors. Choosing Khankendi as the venue for the summit symbolizes the triumph of justice, the rule of law, and Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity.

This step taken by Azerbaijan fully aligns with the spirit of the ECO — it makes a genuine contribution to economic integration and sustainable development among the member countries. The summit in Khankendi serves as a clear example of diplomacy being effectively put into action. Sovereignty was first restored, and then that status was reinforced through hosting international events.

President Ilham Aliyev’s political will harmoniously coincides with the region’s socio-economic development strategy, strengthening the reality that has been achieved.

The leaders of the ECO member states will demonstrate their political support for Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity through their upcoming visit to Khankendi. This visit also serves as an international response to Armenia’s 30-year occupation policy. The summit held in Khankendi openly signals a shift in the status quo. This fact will not go unnoticed by global powers—Azerbaijan is becoming an active player on the international agenda. The country is engaged not only in regional but also in globally significant processes.

Furthermore, the summit carries great significance as a political boost to the reintegration process of Karabakh. The presence of prominent leaders in Khankendi provides the strongest evidence that life is being revived in the region. Azerbaijan’s post-conflict diplomacy is characterized by constructiveness, initiative, and inclusivity, earning respect from both allies and neutral parties alike. 

The summit marks the beginning of a new era—one of stability and cooperation—on territories liberated from occupation. Khankendi is no longer just a symbol of the past; it is becoming a platform for the future. Every document signed here, in the presence of international leaders, will represent a significant step toward peace and progress. The summit also highlights a shift in the region’s diplomatic dynamics. Today, developments are unfolding within frameworks proposed by Baku.

The agenda will include discussions on the Zangezur corridor, energy routes, and access to regional markets. This strengthens Azerbaijan’s role not only as the host but also as an initiator and active player. For ECO member states, the Khankendi summit lays the foundation for a new cooperation model in the post-conflict period. Azerbaijan’s presented “constructive model” is built on three pillars—peace, restoration, and development. This model is recognized as the only real alternative for stability and security in the region.

The summit also sends a clear message to Armenia — urging openness to dialogue, the abandonment of revanchism, and acceptance of the new reality. Azerbaijan’s international standing not only grows through such events but also deepens. Karabakh has transformed into a territory where international meetings take place, investment flows are directed, and reintegration policies are actively implemented. The summit in Khankendi officially confirms this process and marks another diplomatic victory in the history of Azerbaijani statehood.

This event plays a crucial role in strengthening regional cooperation and building institutional frameworks. Meetings like this increase cooperation and connections among participating countries, creating a solid foundation for stability. The summit serves as a strategic platform for expanding economic ties and coordinating energy and transport corridors. This format proves effective both for maintaining trade balance among partners and exploring new investment opportunities. The decisions made during the summit will foster enhanced regional synergy and support the achievement of shared economic goals.

Such meetings on the international stage help to energize political dialogue and strengthen mutual trust. These summits provide regional organizations with a platform to assert themselves before global powers. High-level participation is a key factor that ensures the legitimacy and long-term sustainability of the process. In the face of new challenges, supporting regional integration through such summits contributes to overall political stability. These events represent important diplomatic acts that express not only economic coordination but also political will.