Is peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan possible? How does Kazakhstan view relations with Russia? Ilham Aliyev and Kassym-Jomart Tokaïev answer questions from Euronews.
The United Nations recently organized a regional economic conference in Baku bringing together leaders of SPECA countries from Central Asia, Afghanistan and Azerbaijan.
Euronews correspondent Galina Polonskaya spoke with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev about regional economic strategies and their relations with neighboring countries.
According to Ilham Aliyev, reforms, poverty reduction and external debt management are the main reasons for Azerbaijan’s growth.
By emphasizing international cooperation, investments and committing to doubling Kazakhstan’s economic potential by 2029, Kassym-Jomart Tokaïev is aiming for growth of 5% for his country.
The Azerbaijani president highlights his country’s gas exports to Europe and its contribution to this continent’s energy security, as well as its investments in the green energy sector.
The Kazakh president says he considers his country’s energy activity vital, and that Kazakhstan is aiming for net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2060. He also emphasizes that Russia is a “strategic partner of Kazakhstan” and recognizes its importance in the region.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev states that “Despite some differences on the international scene, Kazakhstan and Russia will continue to work together. »
Addressing the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said “five fundamental principles” which, according to him, will constitute the basis of a peace agreement with Armenia, including “the mutual recognition of the territorial integrity of each, non-use of force and no claim to reciprocal territory.”
