The first day of the Second Azerbaijan International Investment Forum (AIIF 2026), held in Baku on 25–26 September under the patronage of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Ilham Aliyev, has concluded.
At the opening of the event, Deputy Prime Minister Samir Sharifov delivered an address on behalf of President Ilham Aliyev to the Forum participants. The first day featured extensive discussions on topical issues on the global economic agenda, Azerbaijan’s investment opportunities, the development of regional and international connectivity, as well as prospects for cooperation across various sectors of the economy.
At the Forum’s opening session, Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov delivered a keynote address during the session titled “Rebuilding Trust in a Fragmented World: Azerbaijan as a Strategic Gateway Between Regions.” The session highlighted Azerbaijan’s strategic position amid changing global economic dynamics, its regional connectivity opportunities and investment potential.
A fireside discussion on the “Global Economic Outlook” featured Nouriel Roubini, Economist and Strategist and CEO of Roubini Macro Associates, and Pedro Vargas David, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Euronews. The discussion focused on the evolving global economic landscape and the key trends shaping economic growth and investment.
Valerio De Molli, CEO & Managing Partner of The European House – Ambrosetti & TEHA Group, delivered a keynote presentation titled “Azerbaijan and the South Caucasus: A Central Hub for Investment Growth.” The presentation highlighted the investment potential of Azerbaijan and the South Caucasus, regional connectivity and the region’s evolving role in the global economic system.
During the high-level panel discussion titled “Shaping the Future of Global Growth, Investment and Connectivity,” participants exchanged views on the impact of global economic and geopolitical developments on growth, investment and connectivity, the advancement of regional cooperation and emerging economic opportunities. At the conclusion of the session, documents covering cooperation in various areas were signed between Azerbaijani institutions and foreign companies and partners.
The first day of the Forum also featured panel sessions on industrial platforms and free economic zones; the Middle Corridor; artificial intelligence, innovation and digital transformation; South Caucasus–Central Asia strategic partnerships; capital markets; regional energy connectivity and the green transition; international financial cooperation; agribusiness; and critical raw materials and global economic security.
In addition, the Coordination Meeting of the Turkic Investment Promotion Network, an event dedicated to investment, trade and growth opportunities between Africa and Azerbaijan, as well as special sessions held in cooperation with partners from the United Kingdom and Germany, took place.
Overall, the first day of AIIF 2026 was marked by discussions on global economic challenges and investment prospects, the presentation of Azerbaijan’s regional economic and investment opportunities, and efforts to expand international cooperation across a wide range of areas.
The Forum will continue on 26 September.
October 05, 2026 16:32
Minister of Economy Meets with Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization
