First Deputy Minister of Economy Elnur Aliyev addressed the Ministerial Roundtable on Entrepreneurship held as part of the 9th World Investment Forum in Doha. The event focused on innovation and digitalization, the development of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, expanding investment opportunities, and international economic cooperation.
First Deputy Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan Elnur Aliyev addressed the Ministerial Roundtable on Entrepreneurship titled “Investing in the Creators of Tomorrow,” held as part of the 9th World Investment Forum in Doha, the capital of Qatar.
The event, organized by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), focused on building future-ready entrepreneurial ecosystems, opportunities arising from artificial intelligence and digitalization, innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable economic development.
In his remarks, Elnur Aliyev outlined the measures implemented by Azerbaijan to diversify its economy and enhance competitiveness. He emphasized that international investments attracted to the country's energy sector have contributed not only to infrastructure development but also to the advancement of professional skills, expertise, and international partnerships.
It was noted that, alongside economic diversification, expanding export opportunities for non-oil and gas products, enhancing the competitiveness of domestic enterprises, and supporting their access to international markets remain key priorities. The participation of local companies in projects related to the Middle Corridor, renewable energy, and digital infrastructure, the adoption of new technologies, and the development of professional skills are essential to maximizing the economic benefits of these initiatives.
The institutional reforms undertaken to support small business development, attract investment, and promote exports were highlighted as measures aimed at expanding business and export opportunities for entrepreneurs. A proposal was also put forward to implement a targeted initiative in cooperation with UNCTAD and other partners to help small enterprises align with international standards, establish connections with major buyers, and gain access to export markets.
At the conclusion of the event, the importance of mobilizing joint efforts among countries, exchanging best practices, and strengthening international partnerships to promote entrepreneurship in a rapidly changing global economic environment was emphasized. It was noted that UNCTAD's coordinating role and joint initiatives could contribute to creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs and expanding their participation in global economic processes.
The 9th World Investment Forum was organized to bring together policymakers, investors, business leaders, and representatives of international financial institutions to discuss global investment issues amid geopolitical tensions, economic fragmentation, and rapid technological change.
The Forum's program includes events and discussions on investment policy dialogue, investment in artificial intelligence, sustainable finance and business, climate, environment and oceans, investment promotion and special economic zones, entrepreneurship, tourism, and culture.
