Aliyev announces return of 8,000 IDPs, plans for 20,000 more by year's end

Themed "Building a Sustainable Future through Transport Links and Combating Climate Change," the summit aimed to strengthen regional ties and development initiatives.

Central to Aliyev's address was the "Great Return" program, aimed at repopulating Azerbaijan's liberated territories. He emphasized progress with over 8,000 former internally displaced persons already resettled and plans to accommodate 20,000 more by year's end. Aliyev underscored the program's importance in restoring normalcy and rebuilding communities in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur.

The summit, culminating in the signing of the Karabakh Declaration, highlighted Azerbaijan's strategic partnerships and infrastructure projects, including the expansion of the East-West transport corridor and advancements in renewable energy cooperation. Aliyev announced Azerbaijan's increased financial support for the Organization of Turkic States' secretariat to bolster its operational capacity.

Aliyev invited summit participants to the upcoming COP29 conference in Baku, stressing Azerbaijan's commitment to global cooperation and sustainable development. He concluded with optimism for the Turkic world's future, emphasizing cultural heritage and shared values as key assets for regional unity and growth.

President Aliyev's advocacy for the Great Return program at the Turkic States summit underscores Azerbaijan's dedication to rebuilding and revitalizing its liberated territories, marking a significant step towards regional stability and development. (ILKHA)