Deputy Minister of Economy Samad Bashirli delivered a speech at the Regional Forum on Sustainable Development for the UNECE Region held in Geneva.
Deputy Minister of Economy Samad Bashirli participated in the Regional Forum on Sustainable Development for the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Region held in Geneva.
Speaking at the high-level session of the Forum dedicated to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) arising from the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in the UNECE region, Deputy Minister of Economy Samad Bashirli emphasized that one of Azerbaijan’s national priorities is the development of a competitive human capital and a space of modern innovation. He underlined that the country, in cooperation with international partners, is taking steps to develop human capital, build a competitive workforce, and enhance citizens’ modern professional skills.
For this purpose, a cooperation initiative is being implemented between the Center for Analysis and Coordination of the Fourth Industrial Revolution under the Ministry of Economy and the U.S.-based company “Coursera.” Last year, within the framework of this cooperation, 10,000 people in Azerbaijan benefitted from free courses on the Coursera platform over the span of one year. Those who successfully completed the training received internationally recognized certificates.Under the second project with Coursera – the National Program – tens of thousands of citizens have been given the opportunity to participate in over 8,000 courses covering topics such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, digital transformation, and soft skills, with inclusivity ensured for all segments of the population.
It was noted that one of the key directions of Azerbaijan’s sustainable development strategy is the reconstruction of the territories liberated from occupation and the establishment of the necessary infrastructure to ensure the safe return of the population. The reintegration of Karabakh and East Zangezur is being supported through the revitalization of economic activity, the application of innovative technologies, the realization of industrial potential, and the implementation of incentive mechanisms. It was also highlighted that, within the framework of the COP29 event to be held in Azerbaijan in November 2024, significant initiatives have been put forward in areas such as climate action, education, healthcare, social protection, and job creation. Agreements have been signed on major projects that will contribute to the development of a green economy in the country.
Samad Bashirli participated in sessions held within the framework of the event that focused on the themes of decent work and economic growth, as well as gender equality.
Within the framework of the forum, a meeting was held between Samad Bashirli and Sergey Khomenko, Belarus’ National Coordinator for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). During the meeting, opportunities for cooperation in the implementation of the SDGs were discussed.
