Haber Global: Azerbaijan's reconstruction of Karabakh in centre of Western attention

Turkish news channel Haber Global has spotlighted significant projects underway in the territories of Azerbaijan liberated from occupation.

In a report by Emre Öztürk, titled "Major Investments in the Turkish Region: Karabakh Under the West's Spotlight," the channel details extensive reconstruction and restoration efforts in Azerbaijan's Karabakh and East Zangezur economic regions, Caliber.Az reports, citing Haber Global.

"On the fourth anniversary of the Second Karabakh War, large-scale programs and projects aimed at restoring the liberated territories of Azerbaijan are attracting the attention of Western media," Öztürk noted. "These developments suggest that Karabakh is rapidly becoming an international center for investment, tourism, and culture."

The report highlighted that the volume of investments allocated for modern infrastructure and industrial development in these regions has surpassed $6 billion. "This is a clear demonstration of Azerbaijan's commitment to revitalizing these areas and fostering economic growth," Öztürk added.

Haber Global also referenced an article from the European outlet EU Reporter, which emphasized the extensive projects initiated under Azerbaijan's state program "Great Return." "During the Armenian occupation, these territories received little attention," the report stated. "Now, Azerbaijan has allocated multi-billion investments for projects in areas covering a total of 17,000 square kilometers."

According to the report, over 8,000 people have already returned to the liberated territories, with plans to create conditions for the resettlement of 34,500 families in the first phase. "By 2026, the de-occupied territories of Azerbaijan will be transformed into a modern industrially developed zone," the report asserted.

To attract investors and entrepreneurs, the Azerbaijani government is offering extensive tax incentives, including exemptions from customs duties and VAT for up to ten years. "This approach is designed to create a favorable business environment and stimulate economic activity," Öztürk explained.

Moreover, the Azerbaijani government aims to turn Shusha into an international tourist center and quadruple the capacity of hydroelectric power stations in the region within the next three years."These ambitious plans will not only enhance the local economy but also position Azerbaijan as a key player in regional tourism and energy sectors," the report concluded.

Haber Global further noted the government's investments in airport construction in the liberated territories, with flights to the Fuzuli airport, which opened in 2021, already underway. "This is a significant step towards connecting these regions with the broader world," Öztürk remarked.