Azerbaijan presents Great Return and humanitarian demining efforts at UN High-Level Political Forum

Azerbaijan's Deputy Foreign Minister Fariz Rzayev visited New York on July 13-17 to participate in the ministerial segment of the UN High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF).

Addressing the ministlined the country's progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Addressing the ministerial session, Deputy Minister Fariz Rzayev reaffirmed Azerbaijan's commitment to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. He outlined the country's progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The deputy minister highlighted the implementation of the Great Return Program, noting that smart and green cities and villages are being built in the liberated territories as former IDPs gradually return home. He emphasized that humanitarian demining is critical prerequisite for sustainable development in these areas.

Rzayev underscored Azerbaijan's contributions to global sustainable development through hosting COP29 and the 13th World Urban Forum, as well as through humanitarian assistance and technical cooperation initiatives.

Speaking at the UN General Assembly's informal ministerial meeting on the theme "Taking Stock of the Pact for the Future," Rzayev highlighted the importance of translating the pact into practical implementation based on national priorities and measurable results. He also stressed the need for increased financing, technology transfer, and multilateral cooperation founded on equal partnerships for developing countries.

The deputy minister also highlighted Azerbaijan's role as a reliable partner in energy security and regional connectivity.