In an increasingly polarized world, dialogue, truth, and responsible journalism have become essential pillars for strengthening peace. In today’s complex information environment, governments can no longer rely solely on traditional diplomatic channels. Media forums provide a valuable platform where policymakers, experts, and journalists can exchange ideas openly, dispel misconceptions, and present facts directly from primary sources.
Although such forums do not resolve political disputes by themselves, they play a crucial role in fostering the atmosphere of dialogue necessary for long-term stability. At a time when disinformation spreads rapidly and geopolitical tensions continue to rise, allowing journalists to question political leaders directly—and enabling leaders to explain their positions without intermediaries—enhances transparency, strengthens trust, and provides the international community with more accurate and comprehensive information.
Against this backdrop, the Shusha Global Media Forum has evolved into a respected international platform dedicated to discussions on the future of journalism, information security, digital transformation, and peacebuilding. Each year, the forum attracts participants from a growing number of countries while expanding the range of issues under discussion. It also reflects Azerbaijan’s commitment to combating disinformation through open dialogue and promoting direct communication.
The participation of media representatives, experts, and government officials from more than 50 countries demonstrates the forum’s growing international credibility and influence. It confirms Shusha’s emergence as an important global venue where regional and international issues are discussed, with participants from diverse backgrounds enriching the quality and depth of the dialogue.
One of the forum’s major highlights was the address by President Ilham Aliyev, whose remarks on the South Caucasus peace process, regional transportation and connectivity projects, and the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity attracted significant international attention. These issues are not only critical for the region but are also highly relevant to international law, global security, and conflict resolution. The President also emphasized that economic cooperation should serve as one of the key foundations for achieving sustainable peace.
A central theme of President Aliyev’s speech was Azerbaijan’s growing role as a “middle power.” He argued that the concept extends beyond economic or military capabilities. According to the President, a true middle power is a country capable of independently safeguarding its national interests, influencing regional developments, bringing partners together, and assuming international responsibilities within the evolving global order.
The President also presented the issue of Karabakh from a new perspective. While previous international discussions largely focused on the consequences of occupation, this year’s emphasis shifted toward reconstruction and development. He noted that participants who had once witnessed destroyed towns and villages are now seeing newly built cities, modern residential communities, and the dignified return of displaced residents to their homeland. This transformation reflects Azerbaijan’s effort to demonstrate that the post-conflict agenda is now centered on development, reintegration, and sustainable reconstruction rather than security concerns alone.
Transportation and regional connectivity also featured prominently in the President’s remarks. He highlighted that investments made over the past decade have enabled Azerbaijan to emerge as a major logistics hub across Eurasia. Amid growing geopolitical tensions and increasing risks affecting traditional trade routes, the strategic importance of the Middle Corridor continues to rise. President Aliyev stressed that Azerbaijan’s success is not solely the result of its geographical location but also of long-term strategic planning that has positioned the country as a key player in regional transit and international trade.
The overarching message of this year’s Shusha Global Media Forum was clear: truth, dialogue, and mutual trust are indispensable foundations for sustainable peace. The forum demonstrated that responsible journalism goes beyond reporting events—it also strengthens mutual understanding, counters disinformation, and helps rebuild confidence among nations. At the same time, it reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s growing role as an important international platform for promoting dialogue, cooperation, and constructive global engagement.
Member of the Parliament of Azerbaijan and Member of the Foreign and Inter-Parliamentary Relations Committee.
