Davos at a turning point President Aliyev at the 56th World Economic Forum

The 56th World Economic Forum has opened in the Swiss resort of Davos, one of the world’s most authoritative international events bringing together political leaders, economists, and representatives of the largest companies. On 19 January, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev arrived in Switzerland to take part in the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum. At Zurich International Airport, Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva were welcomed by official representatives.

For more than half a century, Davos has remained a venue where key global trends are discussed and the agenda for the coming years is shaped. Whereas macroeconomic issues and global trade once dominated discussions, recent years have seen a shift in priorities towards sustainable development. Climate change, social inequality, biodiversity conservation, and the transition to green energy have moved to the forefront. Technological issues are also drawing considerable attention, ranging from digital transformation to the rapid growth of the influence of artificial intelligence.

The World Economic Forum in Davos is regarded as one of the most influential discussion platforms precisely because it allows world leaders and business figures to exchange views directly, establish contacts, and discuss concrete initiatives in an informal setting.

As a kind of mouthpiece for globalisation, Davos has faced serious challenges in recent years. The strengthening of protectionist and disintegration trends—particularly among the world’s largest economies, above all the United States—has called into question traditional mechanisms of international cooperation. Yet it is precisely this crisis that has served as a catalyst for the Forum’s renewal, its rethinking, and the search for new formats of cooperation, giving the platform a second wind.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has for many years been an active participant in the Davos Forum, using its opportunities to promote the country’s interests and strengthen international ties. For Baku, this is not merely a matter of prestige, but a strategic platform for developing business contacts and attracting investment. The presence of the head of state in Davos reflects not only Azerbaijan’s aspiration to play a more active role on the global stage, but also the growing interest in the country from foreign political and economic circles.

In his meetings and speeches, President Ilham Aliyev drew attention to Azerbaijan’s significant contribution to global energy projects and emphasised that the country has built an effective energy security system. The head of state highlighted Azerbaijan’s special role in ensuring regional energy stability and outlined current and future initiatives aimed at strengthening this position.

On the sidelines of last year’s Forum, the Azerbaijani delegation, led by President Ilham Aliyev, actively presented the country as a reliable partner in energy, sustainable development, and regional security. The head of state held meetings with leaders of various countries, heads of international organisations, and executives of major corporations. Notably, these meetings were initiated by foreign partners, reflecting Azerbaijan’s growing authority on the global stage.

At this year’s Davos Forum, President Aliyev is also expected to have a full schedule of meetings with leaders from different countries, heads of international organisations, and representatives of major global multinational corporations. Having strengthened its reputation as a victorious country and a driver of peace processes in the South Caucasus, Azerbaijan continues to promote ideas of cooperation and sustainable development. Energy and communication projects involving Azerbaijan require extensive coordination and foreign investment, making the Davos platform particularly important for Baku. By effectively leveraging its potential, Azerbaijan not only reinforces its international presence but also contributes to shaping a new architecture of regional partnership.

Azerbaijan’s participation in Davos demonstrates the country’s growing influence in global politics and its readiness for constructive cooperation in addressing worldwide challenges.