Azerbaijan doesn't limit itself to the recovery process alone - it is building a stronger future by successfully implementing an inclusive and diversified economic model, Executive Secretary of the National Coordination Council on Sustainable Development of Azerbaijan, Head of the Economy Ministry Department Huseyn Huseynov said at the UN High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) in New York, Report informs.
The event was dedicated to Sustainable Development Goal No. 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth.
In his speech, Huseyn Huseynov noted that despite global economic instability and growing geopolitical tensions, Azerbaijan stands out with its economic model based on reforms, inclusive development, and sustainability:
"From 2011 to 2023, the country's GDP grew by an average of 2% per year, while the non-oil and non-gas sector grew by an average of 4.4% annually. These indicators indicate the successful implementation of the economic diversification strategy. The strategy also provides for an increase in the minimum wage, pensions, and other transfers, which helps strengthen the economic resilience of vulnerable groups of the population."
Huseynov emphasized that the country's socio-economic development strategy covers not only the capital, Baku, but also all regions, and is aimed at improving social well-being, strengthening equality, and expanding opportunities:
"As part of the self-employment program, implemented since 2017, in 2024, more than 17,000 citizens took advantage of this initiative. As part of the gender-oriented economic policy in 2020-2025, $42 million was allocated to support women's entrepreneurship, which allowed the creation of about 1,500 new jobs. The goal is to increase the average wage of women to 80% of the average wage of men by 2026 (versus 66% in 2021)."
He also informed the forum participants about the National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence adopted in March 2025. This strategy provides for the development of ethical, inclusive, and sustainable AI, the formation of human resources, and the implementation of specialized educational programs.
In conclusion, Huseynov noted: “Decent work is not a luxury, but the basis for sustainable development. Azerbaijan is not just recovering from the past, but moving towards a stronger future. We invest in people, strengthen entrepreneurship and promote equality, developing our economy based on an inclusive, diversified and sustainable model so that no one is left behind.”