Deputy minister: Azerbaijan among first countries to join UN 2026–2030 program

Azerbaijan has become one of the first countries to participate in the new United Nations Framework Program for 2026–2030, Deputy Economy Minister Samed Bashirli announced, according to Caliber.Az correspondent.

Speaking on October 14 at the 7th Dialogue on Sustainable Development Goals, themed “Investing in Education for Sustainable Development of Azerbaijan” — organised jointly by the National Coordination Council for Sustainable Development, the Ministry of Economy, and the UN — Bashirli highlighted the country’s commitment to economic diversification.

He noted that diversification remains a key challenge not only for oil- and gas-producing countries but also for many others. Over recent years, Azerbaijan has taken significant steps in this direction, with the non-oil sector’s share of GDP showing substantial growth.

Bashirli emphasised the critical role of developing trade sectors and the need for targeted investments to support them. He pointed out that industrial parks in Azerbaijan serve as specialised hubs for attracting highly qualified professionals, particularly in the non-oil industries. The vocational school at the Sumgayit Industrial Park, for instance, trains skilled personnel in industrial specialities to meet the needs of Azerbaijani enterprises.

The Deputy Minister also highlighted the Alat Free Economic Zone as a key factor in supporting modern production. He explained that the zone provides excellent conditions for establishing advanced manufacturing facilities, which is particularly significant for Azerbaijan, a country without direct access to the ocean.

Through these initiatives, Bashirli underscored Azerbaijan’s proactive approach to integrating into the UN program and advancing sustainable economic development beyond the oil and gas sector.

By Tamilla Hasanova