Category: Azer News

In an era where global supply chains are being redefined and geopolitical fault lines are shifting, the emergence of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route-commonly known as the Middle Corridor-offers a compelling alternative to traditional East-West trade routes. The recent agreement between the railway operators of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Georgia to establish a unified long-term tariff across the entire corridor marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of Eurasian logistics. This is not merely a technical adjustment; it is a strategic alignment that could reshape the economic geography of the region.

The Middle Corridor stretches from China through Central Asia, across the Caspian Sea, through the South Caucasus, and onward to Europe. It bypasses both Russia and Iran, offering a politically neutral and economically efficient route for freight transport. In the wake of global tensions, sanctions, and the need for diversified trade channels, this corridor has gained unprecedented relevance. It is no longer a secondary option-it is fast becoming a primary artery for Eurasian commerce.

The significance of this corridor lies not only in its geography but in its potential to foster regional cooperation and economic integration. Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Georgia are not merely transit countries; they are strategic stakeholders in a new vision for Eurasia. Their decision to harmonize tariffs across the corridor is a bold step toward eliminating logistical bottlenecks and enhancing the competitiveness of the route. It sends a clear message to global markets: the Middle Corridor is open for business, and it is here to stay.

The agreement, signed during the VII International Transport and Logistics Business Forum ‘New Silk Way’ in Almaty, is embedded within a broader action plan aimed at removing ‘bottlenecks’ along the route. These bottlenecks-whether infrastructural, procedural, or regulatory-have long hindered the corridor’s full potential. By committing to joint development of port, rail, and logistics infrastructure, and by embracing digitalization of procedures, the three countries are laying the groundwork for a seamless and modern transport ecosystem.

This is not just about trains and tariffs. It is about vision, resilience, and strategic foresight. The Middle Corridor offers a lifeline to landlocked Central Asian economies, a gateway for Chinese goods to reach European markets, and a bridge for European exporters to access Asia. It is a corridor of opportunity, and the recent trilateral agreement is a testament to the political will required to unlock that opportunity.

Moreover, the unified tariff structure simplifies the cost calculation for shippers and logistics companies, making the corridor more attractive and predictable. In a world where time is money and uncertainty is the enemy of investment, such predictability is invaluable. It reduces friction, accelerates decision-making, and enhances the corridor’s appeal to global logistics players.

The strategic importance of the Middle Corridor cannot be overstated. It is a counterbalance to the Northern Corridor and the Southern Corridor. It offers a stable, secure, and efficient route that aligns with the interests of a wide array of stakeholders-from multinational corporations to regional governments. Its development is not just a regional priority; it is a global necessity.

The trilateral agreement also reflects a deeper geopolitical reality: the rise of regionalism in a multipolar world. As global powers recalibrate their strategies, regional actors are stepping up to shape their own destinies. Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Georgia are demonstrating that cooperation, not confrontation, is the key to progress. Their alignment on the Middle Corridor is a model for others to follow.

In conclusion, the Middle Corridor is more than a transport route-it is a strategic project that embodies the aspirations of a new Eurasia. The recent agreement on unified tariffs is a milestone that will accelerate its development and enhance its global standing. As the world looks for alternatives to congested and politicized trade routes, the Middle Corridor stands out as a beacon of connectivity, cooperation, and economic promise. The future of Eurasian logistics is being written today-and the ink is flowing through Baku, Almaty, and Tbilisi.

On Wednesday, Samsung Group and SK Hynix Inc. officially signed letters of intent to participate in OpenAI’s ambitious Stargate initiative-a joint venture aimed at building next-generation artificial intelligence infrastructure. The agreement was revealed during OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s visit to South Korea, where he is also scheduled to meet with President Lee Jae-myung to discuss the future of AI collaboration between OpenAI and the Korean tech ecosystem, Azernews reports, citing foreign media.

Samsung announced that multiple subsidiaries will contribute to the project, including Samsung Electronics, Samsung SDS, Samsung C and T, and Samsung Heavy Industries. These units will support OpenAI by supplying high-performance memory chips, as well as offering expertise in data center design, construction, and operations.

Similarly, SK Hynix, a global leader in DRAM and NAND flash memory, will provide advanced chips tailored for AI workloads and will participate in the development of a cutting-edge data center in southwestern South Korea.

In a noteworthy development, industry insiders suggest that this collaboration could result in one of the world’s most energy-efficient AI data centers, potentially powered in part by green hydrogen-a nod to both companies’ increasing focus on sustainable technology solutions.

The Stargate initiative is considered a strategic pillar in OpenAI’s long-term vision of building infrastructure capable of supporting artificial general intelligence (AGI), and the involvement of South Korea’s top tech players significantly raises the project’s global profile.

Azerbaijan has played a crucial role in enhancing Europe’s energy security, according to Rovshan Najaf, President of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR).

Azernews reports that he made these remarks during the opening ceremony of the KAZENERGY Eurasian Forum held in Astana.

‘We have increased our gas supply to Europe by approximately 60%, without relying on any financial support from either European institutions or the European Union itself,’ Najaf said. ‘However, to ensure the stability of these supplies and to further expand volumes, it is essential to upgrade and expand the gas pipeline infrastructure. This requires long-term contractual commitments from European buyers, as well as financial support from EU institutions and European financial organizations.’

Najaf also highlighted the current uncertainty in Europe’s stance on natural gas:

‘On one hand, there is a stated need for gas, but there is no clear consensus-some say this need will continue until 2030, others suggest 2035. Without concrete guarantees, we cannot finance hydrocarbon production projects. These investments are not made for one-year supply cycles. The gas industry requires long-term contracts to justify investments in production and ensure supply security.’

The SOCAR president reiterated Azerbaijan’s readiness to increase exports to Europe, provided there is mutual commitment from the European side:

‘We are fully prepared to boost gas exports to Europe-but this must be based on cooperation. Firstly, through long-term contracts, and secondly, through joint investments in expanding infrastructure.’

Referring to past requests from Europe, Najaf emphasized:

‘Nearly three years ago, our European partners asked us to increase gas supplies. We agreed to double exports-on the condition that there would be support for financing the expansion of pipelines and infrastructure. The existing infrastructure-namely the Southern Gas Corridor-was built at the expense of Azerbaijan and its partners. We assumed all the associated risks, and until 2022, did not even raise the issue of expansion. We simply did our part and supplied the gas. But when Europe began demanding more, it became a critically important issue for them.’

The Chairman of the Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK) Somalia Business Council and the Somali Representative of Albayrak Group, Ahmet Sami Isler, along with the Director of Mogadishu Port, Umut Yurdakul, shared their assessments on the company’s activities and the strategic importance of the port.

Isler recalled that Albayrak Group entered Somalia following President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s historic visit to the country in 2011. He emphasized that their initial goal was humanitarian.

‘At that time, Somalia was in a very difficult situation, facing a crisis due to drought. We said, let us not work only for short-term relief, but let’s create something permanent,’ Isler explained.

He noted that the group began restoration work at Mogadishu Port, the country’s main gateway. ‘We have been operating this port for about eleven years now. We have invested in every way possible. We believe we have made a strong contribution to the state. We are satisfied with Somalia, and hopefully Somalia is satisfied with us. We have become closely identified with the country,’ he said.

Isler also recalled that in 2012 the group rebuilt a collapsed hospital, transforming it into the Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital, one of Africa’s largest and most advanced. The hospital was inaugurated in 2015 with the presence of President Erdogan.

He added that Albayrak Group was honored to construct Trkiye’s largest embassy complex abroad, the Turkish Embassy in Mogadishu, which began in 2014 and was completed in 2016. The company has also undertaken the construction of the Somali Presidential Complex. ‘We did everything possible to contribute to this project, building it for the President, the Somali state, and its people,’ Isler stressed.

Highlighting the importance of Mogadishu Port as the country’s trade lifeline, Isler stated that about 70 percent of Somalia’s imports now come from Trkiye, whereas in the past goods had been sourced largely from China and the United Arab Emirates. The trade volume between Trkiye and Somalia has reached half a billion dollars, he said, with the aim of further growth.

However, Isler pointed to difficulties with visas and residence permits. ‘If these problems are not resolved, we risk losing our commercial gains over time. Serious responsibilities fall on our leaders, political representatives, ministers, and embassies to address this,’ he noted, adding that Somalis also face similar challenges in Trkiye.

Acknowledging Somalia’s security issues, Isler remarked that opportunities come with risks: ‘Where there is risk, there is also potential. For those who know how to take risks, there are great opportunities here.’

Addressing global business leaders, Isler urged: ‘Everything comes from outside. There are no factories here, no investments, no tourism. To revive these sectors, entrepreneurs are needed. Somalis expect this from us. We tell Turkish businesspeople: ‘Come to Somalia, see it for yourself. If you are willing to take risks, opportunities await.”

Mogadishu Port Director Umut Yurdakul underlined that this is the capital’s only and largest entry port. With almost no domestic production, nearly all of Somalia’s needs pass through the port. He noted that Turkish products have declined somewhat in recent years due to shifting global logistics routes and wars, yet Trkiye remains Somalia’s largest supplier, alongside imports from India, China, and the Middle East.

He added that goods also reach Somalia through neighboring Kenya via transit trade. Construction of Mogadishu Port began in 1973 and continued in stages until 1983. However, it was closed from 1991, when civil war broke out, until 2006. ‘During that period, Somalis were cut off from both goods and developments around the world,’ Yurdakul explained.

Later, measures were taken to boost trade and improve living conditions. ‘The most important of these measures was this port. It was essential for humanitarian aid to reach Somalia and for trade to continue,’ Yurdakul stressed.

He recalled that Albayrak Group took over management and modernization of the port through a concession agreement signed at the end of 2014. ‘With our work, we have tried to bring the port to international standards. Today, we provide services at that level. Once this was proven, global companies embraced this port. In a sense, Somalia reopened to the world thanks to this port,’ he said.

Yurdakul also emphasized the country’s weak road and rail links, underscoring that Mogadishu Port remains the only point capable of sustaining the entire nation. Somalia’s 3,300 kilometers of coastline hosts scattered settlements, with small local ports serving some areas, but none match Mogadishu’s capacity. Even in Somaliland, the large port on the Gulf of Aden does not rival Mogadishu’s scale.

‘Products entering here are distributed all across the country. Our port also serves as a collection hub,’ Yurdakul explained. The port spans 350,000 square meters and is served by three of the world’s largest container lines.

He concluded by noting that all foodstuffs, as well as cement and steel used in Somalia’s reconstruction, pass through Mogadishu Port. ‘It is truly the country’s lifeline,’ Yurdakul said.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Azernews reports.

“Dear Shavkat Miromonovich,

Dear Brother,

I am deeply pleased to extend my heartfelt congratulations and to convey my most sincere wishes to you and, through you, to the brotherly people of Uzbekistan on the occasion of a significant milestone – the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Uzbekistan. Although our diplomatic relations span a history of thirty years, the traditions of unity, solidarity, mutual respect, and support between our brotherly peoples have been passed down from century to century and generation to generation. It is particularly gratifying that interstate relations between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, built on the solid foundations of shared roots, history, language, culture, religious-spiritual values, and brotherhood, have dynamically developed over the past period, rising to the highest level – that of an alliance. The agreement we signed last year is a crucial historic document that formalizes and eternalizes the natural alliance between our two independent, strong, and sovereign states. I would like to particularly emphasize your exceptional role and contributions in strengthening and elevating the Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan unity and partnership to this level.

Today, Uzbekistan is a country that has earned great prestige and trust not only in the region but also on the international stage. As a brotherly nation, we take great pride in witnessing the remarkable transformations, socio-economic development, the strengthening of the country’s economic potential, and the growing global image of Uzbekistan under your determined leadership.

Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan relations encompass a multifaceted cooperation agenda. We are delighted by the continuous expansion and enrichment of our mutually beneficial cooperation in political, economic, trade, industrial, energy, transport-logistics, security, investment, agricultural, humanitarian, and other fields. The unprecedented achievements we have attained in a short period through bilateral cooperation contribute to the progress of our countries, the well-being of our peoples, regional cooperation, and overall prosperity and stability.

The people of Azerbaijan will never forget Uzbekistan’s consistent support and just stance in upholding Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and the inviolability of its internationally recognized borders in accordance with the norms and principles of international law and the requirements of relevant UN Security Council resolutions. I once again express my deep gratitude to you for your repeated visits to our liberated territories, your support for the construction of a school in Fuzuli named after the great son of the Uzbek people, Mirzo Ulugbek, the establishment of a joint sewing enterprise in Khankendi, and other initiatives that strengthen our bilateral relations. We regard these as a vivid symbol of brotherly Uzbekistan’s support for the restoration of Karabakh and, at the same time, of our solidarity and brotherhood.

Just as in our bilateral relations, our countries’ joint efforts in addressing important issues on a multilateral basis are commendable. The cooperation between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan within international organizations, based on mutual trust and support, continues successfully. Our shared perspectives on regional and international issues, our common goals and aspirations, and the support we provide each other in addressing challenges serve the interests of our peoples and our states.

Currently, Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and the Caspian region are transforming into a single geopolitical region. The robust relations and effective cooperation between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan undoubtedly play a significant role in the positive processes unfolding in this geographic region.

Dear Brother,

I highly value the special attention and hospitality shown to me during each of my visits to your enchanting country, as well as the genuine brotherhood reflected in our relations. I fondly recall our meetings held in an atmosphere of warmth and sincerity.

I am confident that, driven by the unyielding will of our brotherly peoples, who are bound by unbreakable ties, we will successfully continue our joint efforts to preserve and strengthen the noble traditions of Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan interstate relations and to deepen our alliance.

On this momentous historic anniversary, I once again extend my heartfelt congratulations to you, wishing you robust health, happiness, and success in your endeavors, and lasting peace and prosperity to the brotherly people of Uzbekistan,” the letter reads.

FC Qarabag has secured an impressive 2-0 victory over Denmark’s “Copenhagen” in UEFA Champions League Group Stage match, Azernews reports.

Played at the Tofiq Bahramov Republican Stadium in Baku, the match saw the Azerbaijani champions dominate, with goals coming from Abdullah Zubir in the 28th minute and Emmanuel Addai in the 83rd minute to seal the win.

Zubir’s early strike gave Qarabag the lead, while Addai’s clinical finish in the second half ensured all three points for Azerbaijan’s team.

The win was further backed by a solid performance in defense, with the team controlling the game and limiting Copenhagen’s attacking threats.

Dutch FIFA referee Serdar Gozuboyuk officiated the match, ensuring a smooth and fair contest throughout.

With this victory, Qarabag now sits on 6 points in the group, occupying fourth place, a significant achievement for the Azerbaijani side in Europe’s premier club competition.

Earlier, the team had earned a thrilling 3-2 victory over “Benfica” in Portugal, and this latest win keeps their hopes of advancing in the tournament alive.

Gurban Gurbanov’s squad will now look ahead to their next challenge, facing “Athletic” (Bilbao) in Spain on October 22.

Note that FC Qarabag has boosted Azerbaijan’s UEFA coefficient with its 2-0 victory over Denmark’s “Copenhagen”.

Thanks to this result, the team, has earned an additional 0.5 coefficient points for the country. As of now, Azerbaijan is ranked 25th with a total of 22,000 points.

In the UEFA rankings, Serbia holds the 24th spot with 22,375 points, while Slovakia is in 26th place with 21,375 points. England tops the UEFA rankings with 97,116 points.

The UEFA Champions League is a continental tournament that brings together the best teams from Europe’s top domestic leagues.

It is widely regarded as the pinnacle of club football, attracting millions of fans around the world. Clubs from UEFA’s member countries compete for the title, which is seen as the ultimate achievement for European club teams.

The format of the UEFA Champions League has evolved over time.

The current structure includes several stages: Qualifying Rounds, Group Stage, Knockout Rounds and Final.

The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League marks the 71st edition of Europe’s top club football competition, and the 34th since it was rebranded from the European Cup to the UEFA Champions League.

The final will take place on May 30, 2026, at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest, Hungary.

On October 2, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with Giorgia Meloni, President of the Council of Ministers of the Italian Republic, on the sidelines of the 7th European Political Community Summit in Copenhagen, Azernews reports.

The sides noted the development of relations between Azerbaijan and Italy within the framework of a comprehensive strategic partnership. In this regard, they highlighted the recent successful official visit of the Italian President to Azerbaijan, which included the inauguration of the first campus of the Italy-Azerbaijan University in Baku.

The meeting also addressed the successful energy cooperation between Azerbaijan and Italy, underlining Azerbaijan’s contribution to Italy’s energy security. The sides hailed the expansion of cooperation in investments, culture, humanitarian affairs, and other areas.

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Azernews reports.

“Dear Ilham Heydar oglu,

Dear brother,

Your Excellency, I am deeply pleased to extend my sincere and heartfelt congratulations to you and the brotherly people of Azerbaijan on the auspicious 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan.

I would like to particularly note that the past period has been rich with memorable events in our cooperation, with relations developing consistently across all fields. A robust legal framework and effective institutional mechanisms, along with multilateral formats, have been established to comprehensively and sustainably strengthen our comprehensive long-term relations.

Undoubtedly, the fraternal ties and strong bonds of friendship that unite Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan, coupled with our regular and productive high-level dialogues, serve the common progress of our brotherly peoples.

In particular, the complete elevation of our interstate relations to a new historic stage of alliance in recent years can be regarded as a brilliant practical expression of our firm political will and joint consistent efforts.

Dear Ilham Heydar oglu, I am confident that our strategic partnership, grounded in principles of mutual trust and respect, will continue to develop rapidly across all priority areas, including politics, economy, trade, transport, logistics, energy, industry, agriculture, tourism, and culture.

Undoubtedly, our upcoming series of important meetings this year-both in Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan-will provide favorable opportunities not only to discuss the prospects of our bilateral relations but also for an in-depth exchange of views on the most pressing issues of regional partnership.

On this landmark occasion in the chronicle of our multifaceted relations, I once again congratulate Your Excellency, and wish you robust health, family happiness, great success in your highly responsible state activities, and peace, security, prosperity, and sustainable progress for the brotherly people of Azerbaijan,” the letter reads.

Officials involved in a large-scale smuggling operation of medicines and tobacco products between Iran and Azerbaijan have been identified, according to a joint statement by the Prosecutor General’s Office and the State Customs Committee, Azernews reports.

The investigation revealed that Vusal Huseynov, an inspector of the Bilasuvar Customs Department, and Asif Hajimuradov, a cynologist at the ‘Azerterminalcomplex’ Association, colluded with Azerbaijani citizen Etibar Hatamli and Iranian citizen Jafar Rezeyan. Using their official positions, the group facilitated the illegal transfer of medicines not registered with the state – including those containing potent and psychotropic substances – as well as tobacco products without excise stamps. The total value of the smuggled goods amounted to 400,000 manats (about $235,000).

According to the authorities, the smuggled items were brought from Iran and handed over to relevant individuals inside Azerbaijan.

Based on the collected evidence, Huseynov, Hajimuradov, Hatamli and Rezeyan were charged under multiple articles of the Criminal Code, including illegal trafficking of large quantities of medicines and psychotropic substances, smuggling, illegal import of excise goods, and abuse of official authority leading to grave consequences.

By court decision, Huseynov, Hajimuradov and Hatamli were placed under arrest, while Rezeyan received a different preventive measure not related to detention.

The Prosecutor General’s Office and the State Customs Committee stressed that investigative and operational measures are continuing to fully uncover the scope of the smuggling network.

A ceremony was held to mark the installation of the first solar panel at the Bilasuvar Solar Power Plant, a major renewable energy project with a planned capacity of 445 megawatts, Azernews reports.

The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including Head of Bilasuvar District Executive Authority Faiq Qurbanov, Director of the Azerbaijan Renewable Energy Agency (AREA) Javid Abdullayev, Deputy Chairman of ‘Azerenerji’ OJSC Rustam Gasimov, Chief Operating Officer of ‘Masdar’ Abdulaziz Alobaidli, and CEO of SOCAR Green Elmir Musayev. Each delivered opening remarks at the ceremony.

Following the speeches, VIP guests symbolically participated in the installation of the first panel and signed commemorative solar panels to mark the occasion.

Two specially designated commemorative panels were also showcased during the ceremony. These were signed by attending dignitaries and will remain on display as a symbolic representation of the project’s launch. Group photos were taken as part of the formal proceedings.

Officials from the Ministry of Energy and the Bilasuvar District Executive Authority were also present at the event.

The Bilasuvar Solar Power Plant spans a total area of 1,400 hectares. It will feature over 943,000 bifacial solar panels manufactured by China’s JA Solar, capable of generating electricity from both sides. The high-efficiency panels, each with a capacity of 625-630 watts, will be delivered and installed in stages.

The plant will be equipped with 8,131 single-axis tracking systems to optimize solar energy capture throughout the day. Once operational, panel cleaning will be performed automatically using specialized equipment.

The solar power plant is scheduled to be commissioned next year.