Within the framework of the First Azerbaijan International Investment Forum, a panel session was held discussing the challenges faced by countries seeking to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and the steps taken in Azerbaijan to advance industrial development and innovation.
As part of the forum in Baku, the panel session titled “Accelerating Industrial Development in Azerbaijan: Skills, Innovation, and Strategic Growth” was conducted.
The panel was moderated by Nadya Giyane, a correspondent of ANEWZ TV.
Steve Nouri, CEO and co-founder of GenAI Works, shared insights on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on daily life, work, and education. He emphasized the importance of using AI responsibly, developing modern skills, and utilizing platforms like Coursera. It was noted that adapting education programs to meet new challenges is crucial.
Fariz Jafarov, Executive Director of the Center for Analysis and Coordination of the Fourth Industrial Revolution under the Ministry of Economy, provided information about the center’s activities. He spoke about the “Industry 4.0 Readiness Program” and efforts to develop human capital. He noted that, within this program, companies’ technological readiness levels are assessed using international methodology, and customized technological transformation roadmaps are developed based on their specific needs.
Lisa Bodell, CEO of FutureThink and author of the bestseller Why Simple Wins; Rina Bardik, an expert on investment promotion, economic development, and strategic partnerships; and Can Selçuki, Managing Partner of the Istanbul Economics Research Center, shared their thoughts on:
· Investment opportunities in high-potential sectors such as manufacturing, energy, logistics, and ICT;
· How developing technical and entrepreneurial skills supports the growth of new industrial hubs;
· The importance of creating innovative industrial ecosystems to attract high value-added investments.
It was stated that Azerbaijan offers a favorable environment for investment. Panelists highlighted that countries aiming to attract FDI must show interest in advancing technologies like AI and must have an economic environment conducive to forecasting and innovation.
The panel also included discussions on:
· Developing vocational and technical skills aligned with labor market demands;
· Implementing dual education models;
· Expanding education-industry cooperation.
Within the same session, a fireside chat was held on the topic “Reconstruction and Sustainable Development of Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur”, with participation from:
· Emin Huseynov, Special Representative of the President of Azerbaijan in Aghdam, Fuzuli, and Khojavend districts;
· Samir Babayev, Director General of the Karabakh University Clinic.
Emin Huseynov discussed the state strategy for infrastructure restoration, investment promotion, and ensuring long-term prosperity in the Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur regions, along with the progress made so far.
Samir Babayev shared information on the training of professional medical personnel in the region. Discussions were held around the topic during the event.
