As part of his visit to the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev gave an interview to Azerbaijan Television on August 11.
APA presents the interview.
Journalist: Welcome, Mr. President. First of all, I would like to thank you for taking the time to give this interview despite your busy schedule. With your permission, we would like to proceed with the questions.
President Ilham Aliyev: Please, go ahead.
Journalist: This is your 17th visit to Nakhchivan, and during this visit, we witnessed a number of very important events. Overall, how would you assess the details, outcomes, and results of the visit?
President Ilham Aliyev: In fact, my visit and the events I attended during it are an indication in themselves. They once again demonstrate that the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic is developing comprehensively. As you mentioned, this is my 17th visit to Nakhchivan as President, and each of my visits has been of great significance and produced important results.
Over these years, many important projects have been implemented, and the overall development of Nakhchivan has been ensured. Today’s events are, in a sense, a continuation of the work accomplished, and naturally, the necessary decisions will continue to be made in the future to ensure the rapid socio-economic development of Nakhchivan.
Over these years, strengthening Nakhchivan’s defense potential was, of course, one of the foremost priorities. Significant work has also been carried out in this direction, and today, at the Battle Flag presentation ceremony, Nakhchivan’s military strength was once again demonstrated—both through the supply of equipment, particularly state-of-the-art equipment, and through the establishment of new commando forces. This is also a trend we have recently observed in the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan.
As you know, the Separate Combined Arms Army was established in Nakhchivan by my Order. This army is, naturally, an integral part of the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan. However, Nakhchivan’s specific circumstances, its geography, and the absence of a geographical connection with mainland Azerbaijan have led us to pay greater attention to the security of this region, of the autonomous republic, and this will always be the case. Therefore, this is the primary condition. As I noted today, the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan have a decisive say in the region. In particular, the military potential in Nakhchivan is being strengthened day by day and will continue to be strengthened.
As for the other events, I can, of course, particularly highlight the work carried out and planned in the area of job creation. Today, the foundation stone of the Nakhchivan Industrial Park was laid. On my instructions, many industrial parks have been established in Azerbaijan, and in terms of territory, the Nakhchivan Industrial Park is second only to the Sumgayit Industrial Park. As I said, its foundation stone has been laid, and I am confident that practical work at this Industrial Park will begin shortly.
At the same time, as an integral part of this Park, a 300-megawatt Thermal Power Plant will be constructed. I should mention that Nakhchivan’s generation capacity is currently approximately 200 megawatts. A single power plant will increase this capacity by 1.5 times. Naturally, this plant will serve two purposes: first, to provide the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic with a sustainable energy supply, and second, to facilitate electricity exports.
If there are few countries in our region today that do not face problems with electricity supply, Azerbaijan is foremost among them. For one reason or another, an energy crisis is being experienced in our region, and this crisis may deepen due to the ongoing wars in our region, increasing risks, disruptions to transport chains related to the transportation of energy resources, and other factors. It cannot be ruled out that new unpleasant events may occur in the future. Therefore, Azerbaijan’s special role in this regard is undeniable. We must ensure that Nakhchivan’s continuous and sustainable energy supply is never disrupted.
For these purposes, at the time, again on my initiative, we signed a gas swap agreement with the Islamic Republic of Iran. Under this agreement, a gas pipeline was constructed from Iran to Azerbaijan, while gas transportation from Azerbaijan’s Astara district into Iranian territory was also ensured. In other words, we provided Nakhchivan with a 100-percent gas supply through swaps.
In parallel, we carried out gasification. For several years now—I can say approximately 15 years, perhaps even longer—gasification in Nakhchivan has stood at 100 percent. Overall, the gasification rate across Azerbaijan is 96 percent, which is also a very high figure. However, in Nakhchivan, it has already reached 100 percent. This was also a step aimed at ensuring energy security.
Many hydroelectric and solar power plants, as well as a modular power plant, have been constructed here. In other words, energy security is the second most crucial factor after physical security. As I mentioned today, the foundation stone of the 300-megawatt Thermal Power Plant was laid, and I also inspected the construction of two Solar Power Plants with a combined capacity of 50 megawatts.
Nakhchivan’s solar energy potential is immense. Based on monitoring and precise analysis, Nakhchivan is the most favorable location within Azerbaijan for solar power generation. Therefore, an area of more than 600 hectares has already been designated, where solar power plants with a total capacity of hundreds of megawatts will be constructed.
It is gratifying that, as a rule, the private sector is engaged in the development of renewable energy sources here. The information presented to me today shows that these projects are economically attractive—in other words, profitable—for investors.
Thus, both the positive investment climate in Azerbaijan, together with state support for the development of renewable energy sources, and our overall growing potential, including our export capabilities, play an important role here. Because, as I noted, Nakhchivan is today fully secure in terms of electricity supply.
The 200-megawatt generation capacity I mentioned exceeds Nakhchivan’s current demand. However, we must look to the future. Nakhchivan’s rapid development will continue, including as a result of the implementation of the State Program. This Program was also adopted by my Order. The export of very large volumes of electricity from Nakhchivan will also be envisaged.
Another important area—which was also reflected in the program of my visit today—is the protection of Nakhchivan’s historical and cultural monuments. As you know, Nakhchivan has a very rich history and culture, including a rich architectural heritage. Nakhchivan was the capital of the ancient Atabegs state, and many monuments dating from that era and subsequent periods are monuments of world importance.
The restoration works carried out at the Momine Khatun Mausoleum were presented to me today. At the same time, the conservation, protection, and restoration of other historical and cultural sites are also envisaged. A monument was erected in honor of the famous Nakhchivan architect Ajami Nakhchivani, the creator of the Momine Khatun Mausoleum. Located right behind that monument is his immortal creation—the Momine Khatun Mausoleum.
All these issues are of great significance. Because, naturally, socio-economic development and energy security are crucial matters. However, at the core of all the work being accomplished lies our national identity, our national spirit, our culture, our language, our literature, and our history. The Azerbaijani people are a fortunate people. We can truly take pride in our history, our culture, and our outstanding personalities.
At the same time, Nakhchivan has given Azerbaijan many prominent figures. Nakhchivan gave the Azerbaijani people a National Leader of genius stature such as Heydar Aliyev. In other words, the rich history of this region, the courage and dedication of the people living here to their native Motherland, along with Nakhchivan’s strategic location and potential, as well as the projects implemented and to be implemented here, are today of immense importance not only for Azerbaijan—although first and foremost for Azerbaijan—but also for a broader geography.
For example, when we speak of transport corridors, we naturally see new transport arteries emerging today through the example of Nakhchivan. We are creating these. Extensive work has already been carried out, and more will be done to achieve this. Therefore, continuous attention is paid to these matters and will continue to be paid.
Today, I can also highlight the opening of the DOST Center related to social services. Next to it stands the “ASAN Khidmet” Center, which was also established back then on my instructions to provide better services to the people.
In short, it is enough to look at the components of the program for everyone to see that Nakhchivan’s development is a reality. I can also add that Nakhchivan holds a special place and has a special share in the State Program on the Development of Agriculture, which was adopted recently—a few months ago—and the necessary funds have been allocated. In particular, irrigation projects, which are a crucial factor for agricultural development, are being implemented. Numerous artesian wells will be drilled, and modern irrigation systems will be installed. Water will be supplied to currently unirrigated lands. Thus, the development of the autonomous republic will become even faster and more comprehensive.
Journalist: Mr. President, this visit is also taking place under new realities. The most important of these realities is probably related to the Zangezur corridor—the one you declared right after the war would definitely be opened, regardless of who wanted it or not. At what stage are the works regarding the restoration and opening of Nakhchivan's railway and the Zangezur corridor now?
President Ilham Aliyev: As you know, the creation of the Zangezur corridor was our initiative. Connecting the main part of Azerbaijan with Nakhchivan, which is an integral part of it, has been our long-standing dream. We were taking steps toward this goal, and we have now moved closer to it with confidence and great skill.
Naturally, you remember that upon the conclusion of the Second Garabagh War, a trilateral statement was signed by the President of Azerbaijan, the President of Russia, and the Prime Minister of Armenia. In fact, this was an act of capitulation for Armenia, because Armenia surrendered. At that time, the Aghdam, Kalbajar, and Lachin districts, which were still under occupation—we had not liberated those regions through war yet—were returned to us without a single shot being fired. Naturally, Armenia did not do this voluntarily; we forced them. If you force someone under wartime conditions, it means that the party has suffered capitulation. So, there is no need to look for any humiliating or insulting meaning in this term. This is simply a reality. We must both know history as it is, not forget it, and never allow the falsification of history or such attempts. At that time, on November 9, after the liberation of Shusha, trilateral negotiations were taking place through the mediation of the President of Russia. I firmly insisted that the corridor connecting the main part of Azerbaijan with the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic must definitely be reflected in the statement to be signed. The Armenian side did not want to agree to this. However, they did not have many alternatives. Had the war continued, we would, of course, have suffered losses, but Armenia would have suffered far greater losses. Their troops were practically encircled, and it was entirely possible to destroy them. Therefore, even if they did not want to, Armenia agreed to it, and that statement is known to everyone—there is a specific clause in it.
However, over the five years that have passed since the Second Garabagh War, no practical steps have been taken regarding the opening of the Zangezur corridor. We repeatedly conveyed to both Russia and Armenia that time was slipping away, that a vital part of this statement was not being executed, and that this was an unacceptable situation. We received various answers at different times; I do not wish to elaborate too much on that. The fact remains that Armenia tried to delay this in every way possible. The Russian side, on the other hand, was either unable to ensure it or there were other reasons. In short, the fact was that until August of last year, the matter remained in a frozen state.
When the United States of America began to address this issue—as a result of contacts initiated around the spring of last year, in early spring, this process was launched—they naturally tried to contribute to the Armenia-Azerbaijan normalization process and expressed their readiness to do so. Naturally, we had several important conditions, including the Zangezur corridor.
As a result, this issue found its solution at the historic Washington Summit on August 8, 2025. The implementation of this project, named TRIPP, has already been launched. Recently, three days ago—on August 8—during a conversation with President Trump, this issue was also touched upon, and both sides emphasized their confidence that this important transport project will definitely and swiftly be implemented. So, this is the history of the matter.
At the same time, as soon as the Second Garabagh War ended, we immediately began restoring both railways and highways, including the construction of roads leading toward Nakhchivan. Today, the Horadiz–Aghband highway is almost complete. Only a few minor issues remain. The construction of the railway is also progressing rapidly. We can accelerate this project at any moment; however, we see no need for it as long as the Armenian section is not ready, in order to direct investments and resources toward resolving more crucial and urgent matters.
Nevertheless, in any case, the railway will reach the Armenian border next year. As for the construction of the Nakhchivan railway, work is currently underway. On my instructions, the Ministry of Transport is dealing with this matter. Azerbaijan Railways has commenced construction work in the direction of Ordubad, and the missing sections will be rebuilt. Two sections were missing, both located close to the Armenian border—one in the Ordubad district and the second in the Sadarak district. The length of both sections is not very long, approximately 3–5–7 kilometers. The remainder of the railway is, in principle, operational and is being used—and can be used—today. However, the throughput capacity of the existing railway today is 1.5 million tons. For the initial stage, this is sufficient for the launch of the Zangezur corridor and this line in general, which serves as a branch of the East–West corridor. But our goal is to have at least 15 million tons of cargo transit through this transport corridor. For that to happen, the existing railway must be reconstructed and rehabilitated. The information and presentation delivered to me today were very important. My instructions were that no time should be lost; Azerbaijan can and must, using its own funds, bring this railway to a fully operational state with a throughput capacity of 15 million tons.
I should also mention that many international organizations and several countries are showing interest in this route, particularly in the Nakhchivan segment of Azerbaijan Railways. One of them is the European Union. Representatives of the European Union were dispatched to Nakhchivan, where they familiarized themselves with the situation on the ground, and they also wish to participate in this corridor.
In principle, we do not object to this. Our position is that in the territories located in the main part of Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan Railways is already finalizing all the work, and there is no need for any foreign participation there. As for the rehabilitation of the Nakhchivan railway, an international consortium could, in principle, be established here. Naturally, provided that the controlling stake belongs to the Azerbaijani state, the international consortium could consist of investors, and we are open to this. Even if that does not happen, we will build this line ourselves. We do not have any financial problems at present. Even if we did, we would always find funds for this important project. However, we believe that in order to make this route more attractive to international actors and potential shippers, the Nakhchivan railway project could be constructed precisely, as I said, by a consortium consisting of several companies.
We have received certain messages from several countries regarding this matter. I do not wish to speak about that just yet. Simply put, from a conceptual point of view, it is possible. However, as I told the Minister of Transport and the head of the Railway Department today, we are certainly open to this, but we do not want to lose time. During the recent conversation with President Trump, it became clear that the construction of the railway on Armenian territory must begin this year—it is only 42 kilometers of road there.
On the territory of Nakhchivan, however, based on the new feasibility study—because an entirely new feasibility study has been developed—the length of the railway will be 194 kilometers. Previously, it was shorter. Why is it longer? Because previously the curves were tighter, and if we were to base it on that line—if we restored it exactly as it was—it would not be able to handle 15 million tons of cargo. Therefore, the railway will be longer—194 kilometers. We cannot afford to lose time. We also have the funds available for this year and next year. So, my words will presumably reach various addressees. If anyone wishes to participate in this project, they should not waste time and should reach an agreement with us soon. Because certain bureaucratic obstacles and delays—that is not our, Azerbaijan's, way of doing things. We define the issues, make decisions, and immediately begin their implementation.
As I mentioned, the significance of this route will extend not only to Azerbaijan, but to a broader geography as well. Because as I noted, this will be a branch of the East–West transport corridor. At the same time, it will be a branch of the North–South transport corridor. Because today, when we talk about the North–South transport corridor, usually the Russia–Azerbaijan–Iran route—that is, the border crossing to Astara, the Astara–Rasht project on Iranian territory—is implied. As far as I know, the implementation of that project has either begun or is about to begin. In any case, this project is ready on Azerbaijani territory. However, after the opening of the Zangezur corridor, a second railway line from Azerbaijan to Iran will open. Entering Nakhchivan precisely through the Zangezur corridor, there is a railway to Iran from the Julfa railway hub. So, this project could materialize even sooner. The North–South transport corridor is directed toward the Persian Gulf. From there, it can extend to regions further afield, for instance, Pakistan. In short, this will be a crucial transport project, and Nakhchivan stands at its center.
Therefore, from a strategic point of view, alongside the factors I mentioned earlier, this factor also plays a vital role. Of course, the transportation of, say, 15 million tons or perhaps more of cargo through here will lead to much greater activity. More jobs will be created, economic activity will increase, and I can say that Nakhchivan will turn into an indispensable transport hub. This is entirely possible.
We all know very well—we have spoken about this many times—that our country has no direct access to open seas or oceans. Yet today, when the implementation of Eurasian transport corridors is discussed, it is impossible to bypass us or circumvent us. Nakhchivan will have the exact same future, and of course, this will bring us both economic and other dividends.
Journalist: Mr. President, you have already touched upon this issue to some extent. Sequential measures are being implemented regarding Nakhchivan's energy supply and energy security. We can particularly highlight the commissioning of the Iğdır–Nakhchivan gas pipeline last year, as well as the steps taken toward realizing Nakhchivan's green energy potential. Overall, how would you evaluate the current situation and prospects? Can we also expect foreign investments in Nakhchivan in this direction?
President Ilham Aliyev: Yes, absolutely, absolutely, this will happen. We are already receiving such proposals from many sources. Concrete projects have already been launched both in the main part of Azerbaijan and in the Caspian Sea, as well as, as you know, in the liberated territories. Some have already been commissioned, while others are currently under implementation. Taking into account the solar potential and particularly the hydro potential of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, even greater work will be accomplished here. For instance, one of the issues on the agenda is the project for a hydroelectric power station with a capacity of slightly over 15 megawatts in the village of Tivi in the Ordubad district. We will also allocate funds for the continuation of work on this power plant. Local investors, as I mentioned, are constructing 50-megawatt solar power plants. Foreign investors are also showing interest.
I believe that solar power generation alone in Nakhchivan could reach at least 500 megawatts—at the very least. It could even reach 1,000 megawatts. The main issue here is its export potential. For this, negotiations must, of course, be conducted with relevant agencies in the respective countries, and they are underway. At the same time, we need to expand the capacity of transmission lines. Because naturally, there are power lines from Nakhchivan to both Iran and Türkiye today, but their capacity is somewhat limited. That is to say, to export 500 megawatts or even 1,000 megawatts of electricity, there are currently two directions: one to Türkiye and one to Iran. But in the future, it could also be Europe.
Therefore, backing the Zangezur corridor with concrete projects carries a broader significance. Naturally, when we put forward the idea and initiative of the Zangezur corridor, first and foremost, the transport segment was implied. But today, we look at this in a broader context. For instance, our project to lay power transmission lines from the main part of Azerbaijan to Nakhchivan through the territory of Armenia is ready. A very large substation was constructed in the liberated Jabrayil district. The main function of that substation is power transmission—in other words, such substations are called converter substations. It was built not for domestic supply, but for transmitting large volumes of energy. It is ready, and it was constructed specifically for the Zangezur energy corridor.
As a result of the analysis conducted by our specialists on the territory of Armenia, even the exact locations were identified for the installation of power transmission towers. I hope the Armenian side will not delay this issue either. Because, first of all, they themselves might need it. Their primary source of energy today is a nuclear power plant, the management of which is not in their hands. That is the first point. Secondly, this plant is outdated and poses a threat to the entire region. Azerbaijan and Türkiye have repeatedly expressed their concerns regarding this issue on various international platforms. Extending the lifespan of that plant cannot be an endless process; it must be closed sooner or later. Naturally, if it closes, Armenia will plunge entirely into an energy crisis. Therefore, as they say, having an additional source can only bring benefits.
For example, today our power lines are interconnected with Russia, Iran, Georgia, and through Georgia with Türkiye. Thus, the energy corridor extending through the territory of Armenia to Nakhchivan, and subsequently to Türkiye and Europe, will also allow Armenia's energy system to remain stable should a crisis arise. Therefore, the sooner we implement this, the better. Naturally, as you know very well, over these past five years we have installed towers amidst the snow in the Kalbajar mountains at altitudes of 3,500 meters. In other words, if we are to execute this project, it would take a maximum of 6 months.
However, Armenia must naturally do this itself. Therefore, I believe clarity should be brought to this issue shortly. This will be an integral part of the Zangezur corridor, of TRIPP. Because this project is not merely a railway or a highway. Fiber-optic cables, power lines, and in the future, if needed, oil and gas pipelines can also pass through here.
Because the more alternatives there are, the better it is for everyone. Therefore, in answering the question regarding Nakhchivan's energy security, I also wish to return to my earlier words that a fully sustainable and secure energy system is being created here—factually, it has been created, but we are improving it further. We must, of course, expand our export capabilities, including through the territory of Nakhchivan.
I repeat, in our region, there is no other country as comprehensively supplied with energy as we are, whether in terms of oil and gas or electricity. By expanding our export capabilities to neighboring countries, we will at the same time gain access to the European market. Because we have already reached Europe with our oil and gas, but we also wish to reach it with electricity.
Today, the sole route is through Georgia and Türkiye, and then onward to Europe. We must expand this. In particular, the feasibility study for the Black Sea energy cable project is ready. However, having a second line will only strengthen our capacity. Moreover, as you likely recall, back in November 2024 during COP29, the Presidents of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan and I agreed on laying an underwater electric cable across the Caspian Sea and signed an agreement. That is to say, we must be prepared for that as well.
Azerbaijan will demonstrate itself as a country that generates, receives, transmits, and exports electricity. In short, these constitute our strategic vision and plans. I repeat, these plans serve the interests of all the countries situated in our vicinity. Simply put, coordination work here must be conducted at the proper and necessary level, and negotiations must be accelerated. I can say that negotiations in this regard are currently being conducted with both Türkiye and Iran. It is still too early to say anything definitive. As for Armenia, I would like to reiterate that the sooner the energy corridor is established on Armenian territory, the better it will be for TRIPP and the entire region.
Journalist: Mr. President, you touched upon the work done and the work to be done across various areas. Overall, we would like to know what the approach, strategic vision, and plans are regarding the development of Nakhchivan—a question whose answer is likely awaited with great interest in Nakhchivan as well.
President Ilham Aliyev: As I noted, the primary critical issues were security matters, and these have been resolved. Then there was energy security, and for the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, this has been resolved. Now, the discussion revolves around Nakhchivan becoming an energy exporter.
Measures are also being taken regarding unemployment. In particular, as I mentioned, the creation of the Nakhchivan Industrial Park will provide a major impetus to this. The creation of modern industrial complexes in Nakhchivan is envisaged. The creation and restoration of social infrastructure are planned. According to the information provided to me, there is a need for the construction and repair of kindergartens, and we will carry this out.
The transport problems of Nakhchivan city have been resolved. Today, new electric buses were presented, and they will likely be put into service starting tomorrow. The old buses have been completely decommissioned, and we frequently see these green buses on the streets of Baku as well. We will see them even more, as their share compared to diesel buses is increasing further. For Nakhchivan city, this issue has been resolved.
I know there is a problem with intercity and interdistrict transport. Instructions were given to procure 217 modern interdistrict buses to be launched on the routes this year and next year.
Substantial funds were also invested in the road infrastructure of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic in the past. You also saw the roads; they are in good condition. However, there are village roads and roads that are still in disrepair, and calculations have been carried out: the construction and major repair of roads of various categories with a total length of approximately 420 kilometers are planned. The population of these 26 residential settlements is approximately 160,000 people. This issue will be resolved.
The construction of a hydropower plant in the Ordubad district is planned. As you know, the State Program for the overall development of Nakhchivan was adopted recently, followed by the drafting of an action plan on irrigation. I dispatched a large delegation here; all issues were analyzed, and the work was commenced.
In the State Program on the Development of Agriculture adopted in May of this year, there is a dedicated section concerning Nakhchivan, and the relevant instructions have been given. Furthermore, alongside this, a new Order will be signed by me tomorrow for additional measures to be taken. This will be an Order with very substantial financial backing, specifying concrete projects. Naturally, necessary oversight will also be ensured so that work here progresses even faster.
Overall, I have already stated this, and we have structured it such that Nakhchivan, along with the liberated territories—East Zangezur and Garabagh—should be developed based on a unified concept. For instance, Master Plans for cities across all the liberated territories have been approved. I instructed that a Master Plan for Nakhchivan city also be developed and prepared—it was presented to me today—and that additional measures be taken to ensure the city's development and the creation of modern infrastructure.
Nakhchivan's tourism potential is very rich: it features historical monuments, beautiful nature, clean air, and picturesque landscapes. Unfortunately, however, the scarcity of hotels and their lack of high standards hinder the development of tourism. Today, the foundation stone of a new five-star hotel was laid in the city center, which will likely be ready around 2028.
In short, whatever is required from the state for the development of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic has been done to date and will continue to be done. Over the past 20 years, all construction in Nakhchivan has been financed from the state budget. Every year, hundreds of millions of manats are allocated from the Azerbaijani state budget to the state budget of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. Without this, naturally, we would not be able to see today's developing and prosperous Nakhchivan.
However, we always wish for things to be better, we want things to be better. Considering that Garabagh and East Zangezur are being built virtually from scratch, and the distance between the Zangilan district and the Ordubad district is merely 42 kilometers, this is factually a single geographical space, as it has historically been. Zangezur, Nakhchivan, and Garabagh constituted a single space, and the migration of people took place over centuries. Therefore, there are many relatives across this vast geography as well. Consequently, we envision this as a unified, exemplary region of development.
Garabagh and East Zangezur have been declared green energy zones, and Nakhchivan is also a green energy zone. Most of the energy generated here today comes from renewable sources. We have already created two 250-megawatt battery energy storage systems. I issued instructions to install a battery energy storage system of at least 100 megawatts in Nakhchivan during the first stage as well. Because renewable energy—solar and hydroelectric power plants—is also generated here. Therefore, to store this energy, we must utilize these modern technologies.
All this work is already continuing in a systematic manner. If we consider the geographical location of our country, we will see that there is a specific development plan for every region. Every single one of our economic regions is developing successfully, and this ensures the overall development of our country.
Therefore, the plans are grand, and I have no doubt about the implementation of these plans. Because there is strong willpower, we also have financial resources, and we are not dependent on anyone. By creating a system of governance in Nakhchivan similar to that in Garabagh and East Zangezur, we are effectively unifying these three regions from an administrative point of view as well. Naturally, while preserving the autonomous republic status of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, governance regulations must be improved.
We have seen the advantages of the new governance system in Garabagh and East Zangezur. I am confident that the more than 90,000 people already living there also see this. The same governance system— the Special Representation of the President—was applied in Nakhchivan as well. Thus, parallel to personnel reforms, these structural reforms are naturally an approach directed at the main objective: to ensure that this region, this ancient land, develops continuously, and that people live here in comfort, security, and prosperity.
Journalist: Thank you very much for taking the time.
President Ilham Aliyev: Thank you.
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