Baku: Co-organized by the Center for Analysis of International Relations (AIR Center) and the Center for Governance and Culture in Europe (GCE-HSG), an international conference themed ‘Security and Cooperation in the South Caucasus’ was held in Baku. The event focused on the new regional order that has emerged following the liberation of Azerbaijan’s territories and discussed various aspects, including the impact of cultural, academic, and civil society encounters on reconciliation and recovery.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the conference also delved into the correlation between the Middle Corridor and connectivity in the South Caucasus, the TRIPP initiative, and the role of the United States in advancing the region’s connectivity architecture. The prospects for an integrated South Caucasus connectivity system were also explored. Farid Shafiyev, Chairman of the AIR Center, emphasized that Azerbaijan’s geographical position and major transport initiatives have positioned the country as a crucial bridge between existing geopolitical conflicts in the North and South.
Ulrich Schmid from the Academic Council of GCE-HSG highlighted the developments in the South Caucasus and the opportunities arising from the new peace initiative between Azerbaijan and Armenia for regional cooperation. Guy Bonvin of the Swiss Embassy pointed out the strategic significance of the South Caucasus as a connecting point between Europe, the Black Sea, and Central Asia.
The first panel of the conference, titled ‘The South Caucasus After the Second Garabagh War: A New Regional Order,’ brought together experts to discuss Azerbaijan’s evolving geopolitical role and regional ownership. Moderated by Alexander Meienberger, the session featured keynote speakers such as Jordi Xucl , Micha«l Levystone, and Anar Valiyev, who examined the transformation of the South Caucasus and Azerbaijan’s role in shaping the region’s emerging political landscape.
Participants of the conference are invited to an info-tour to the Garabagh and East Zangezur economic regions. This tour will offer field research opportunities, allowing attendees to witness the devastation during the occupation and the ongoing reconstruction efforts in areas including Aghdam, Jabrayil, Fuzuli, Shusha, and Lachin.