DND Report
Khankendi, Azerbaijan: Interacting with participants of the 3rd Shusha Global Media Forum here on July 19, 2025, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev maintained that Azerbaijanis have become much more active on the international arena.
“What you mentioned about mediation efforts between different countries is only part of that,” President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said at a meeting with participants of the 3rd Shusha Global Media Forum.
“I am very pleased with the development of Azerbaijani media. I am truly glad that today our media has earned great credibility not only domestically, but also internationally – and I say this with complete sincerity. Today, Azerbaijani media is capable of protecting national interests. It has achieved great success in exposing baseless accusations against Azerbaijan through solid arguments, thorough analysis, and factual evidence. Our media not only defends national interests, but also, when necessary, goes on the offensive – and that is also important. In sports, they sometimes say that the best defense is a good offense.” President Ilham Aliyev added.
“We really became an active member of the international community. We, with strong links to different international actors, can and will play a much more important role in at least the issues of the broader region,” noted the President.
He was of the view that Azerbaijani media is now fully capable of responding to any slanderous or hostile campaign.
State-run news Agency Azertac added:
He highlighted that one factor behind Azerbaijan’s successful policy is its unique position as one of the few countries that is a member of both European and Muslim organizations. Azerbaijan actively participates in summits and formats under the European Union, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, ECO, and many others.
“What’s also important for everyone is this: when defending your national interests, you must also consider the interests of your neighbor. Protecting national interests is a fundamental pillar of Azerbaijan’s policy; however, in a regional or global context, this factor should not be overemphasized. It’s essential to consider the situation from your neighbor’s perspective. That’s when many things become clear, and many potential misunderstandings can be resolved effectively,” the head of state added.
“We need the Economic Cooperation Organization to be more consolidated and efficient,” President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said at a meeting with participants of the 3rd Shusha Global Media Forum.
“There are more active and less active formats of partnership on a bilateral level between member states, but we need to adopt a multilateral approach. From this point of view, I think that Azerbaijan’s efforts will be appreciated. We took this responsibility as the chair now. I am sure it will be successful,” noted President Ilham Aliyev.
