Baku, January 1, 2025 – The Europe Today: On the occasion of the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis and the New Year, President Ilham Aliyev addressed the nation, reflecting on Azerbaijan’s achievements in 2024 and outlining strategic objectives for the future.
In his address, President Aliyev emphasized Azerbaijan’s steady progress, strengthening military capabilities, and robust economic growth. He celebrated the successful restoration of territorial integrity, the continued development of Karabakh and East Zangezur, and Azerbaijan’s rising global stature.
Highlighting key achievements of 2024, the President noted the liberation of four villages in the Gazakh district through peaceful and diplomatic means, underscoring Azerbaijan’s ability to assert its sovereignty. He also reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in the South Caucasus, while cautioning against Armenia’s ongoing militarization and provocative policies.
The President detailed Azerbaijan’s record-breaking military budget for 2025, amounting to 8.4 billion manats, as a necessary measure to counter regional threats. He expressed regret that funds which could have been allocated for social programs and reconstruction efforts in Karabakh and East Zangezur were instead required for national defense due to Armenia’s actions.
On the restoration of liberated territories, President Aliyev highlighted significant progress, with over 19 billion manats invested since 2021 and tens of thousands of citizens already returning to their ancestral lands. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the Great Return Program, ensuring the resettlement of internally displaced persons in Karabakh and East Zangezur.
In the economic sphere, President Aliyev celebrated a GDP growth of over 4%, the expansion of the non-oil sector, and a reduction in foreign debt. He announced forthcoming social welfare improvements, including increased wages and pensions starting in 2025, reflecting the government’s ongoing commitment to its citizens’ well-being.
The President also addressed Azerbaijan’s successful hosting of the COP29 climate conference, attended by 80 heads of state and over 76,000 participants. He denounced international campaigns to tarnish Azerbaijan’s reputation, asserting the nation’s resilience and growing influence on the global stage.
Concluding his address, President Aliyev expressed his gratitude for the public’s unwavering trust and reiterated his dedication to leading Azerbaijan on a path of progress and sovereignty. He extended warm holiday greetings to Azerbaijanis worldwide, wishing them prosperity, happiness, and unity in the year ahead.
“Dear compatriots,” he declared, “I wish my beloved nation good health, success, and lasting peace. Happy holidays!”
This address underscored Azerbaijan’s resilience, vision, and determination to achieve its goals, uniting its people under the banner of national solidarity and pride.
