Azerbaijani President Emphasizes Peace and Progress in New Year Speech
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Baku, Jan 1 (NationPress) Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev presented his New Year speech to the nation, celebrating the country's accomplishments in 2024 and reiterating the government’s dedication to peace and progress.
“We are successfully concluding the year 2024. All the goals we set at the beginning of the year have been achieved. Our country has progressed confidently, and we have solidified our position in the South Caucasus,” Aliyev stated, highlighting Azerbaijan's notable advancements in economic growth and national security, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
“There is positive development in the country's economy. Our military capability has strengthened. Stability reigns in our nation. The Azerbaijani populace enjoys conditions of security.
The global events unfolding around us are apparent to everyone. New wars, confrontations, and conflicts are erupting. Violent clashes persist in various regions worldwide. Azerbaijan, however, thrives in peace, tranquility, security, and stability. I am confident that this stability and peace will remain eternal in the future as well,” remarked President Ilham Aliyev.
Aliyev emphasized the country’s robust economic performance, with GDP growth surpassing 4 percent, the non-oil sector expanding by over 6 percent, and foreign exchange reserves exceeding $72 billion.
“These achievements equip us with the necessary resources to execute ambitious social programs and to persist in rebuilding the liberated territories,” he stated.
The president also highlighted Azerbaijan's successful hosting of COP29, labeling it as one of the largest and most prestigious international events in the nation’s history.
“The conference convened 197 countries, 80 heads of state, and over 76,000 participants, showcasing Azerbaijan's increasing influence on the global stage,” Aliyev remarked, adding that the success of COP29 cemented Azerbaijan's position as a leader in global climate action.
He concluded his address by stressing the importance of social stability, announcing that minimum wages and pensions would see an increase starting in 2025. “The well-being of the Azerbaijani people is at the core of our government's initiatives,” Aliyev affirmed.
