In recent years, Azerbaijan has solidified its standing as a victorious nation in the system of international relations. Esteemed international organizations have shown significant interest in cooperating with Azerbaijan, a leading country in the South Caucasus and an increasingly influential player on the global stage. The country's accession to D-8, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, last year was a logical outcome of the decisive and successful foreign policy pursued by President Ilham Aliyev. This development reaffirms Azerbaijan’s status as a rapidly developing state characterized by sustainable socio-political stability, robust economic performance, and the respect of the international community.
In a time when a new global order is taking shape, Azerbaijan’s representation on this platform promises additional dividends for both the organization and the country itself. Azerbaijan’s membership in D-8 underscores its commitment to multilateralism and fosters the development of both multilateral and bilateral relations within the organization.
During an interview with local television channels, the President stated, “We regard the interests of all Muslim countries as our own, which is why Azerbaijan became the first choice following the expansion of D-8.” With Azerbaijan's inclusion, the number of member states in the organization has reached nine. Naturally, the decision took into account Azerbaijan’s economic potential, political influence, and military strength. Furthermore, the official policies of Baku aimed at fostering Islamic solidarity played a crucial role in this process. Through Azerbaijan, D-9 has extended its geographic reach to encompass the Caucasus and Caspian regions, thereby enhancing the capabilities of both the organization and Azerbaijan itself.
Established approximately 30 years ago, D-9 has evolved into a global organization with the mission of creating new opportunities for nations with significant potential and enabling their participation in international decision-making processes. Encompassing three continents, with a collective GDP exceeding $4 trillion, a trade turnover of $130 billion, and uniting 60% of the global Muslim population, the organization plays a pivotal role in strengthening Islamic solidarity.
Notably, D-9 holds observer status in the United Nations Security Council, which enhances its influence on global processes and strengthens its position on the international stage.
It is worth recalling that the President of Azerbaijan participated as a guest of honor in the 9th D-8 Summit in 2017. At the time, the President highlighted both the development of the country and drew attention to the realities of the Karabakh conflict and Armenia's occupation policy. Following Azerbaijan’s historic victory in the 44-day Patriotic War, the country now joins D-9 as a victorious nation. During the post-conflict period, the new realities of the region will be communicated to the international community, including the Islamic world, through this platform. This holds particular significance for ensuring peace, security, and justice in the South Caucasus—priorities for official Baku. Azerbaijan has always prioritized justice and the principles of international law.
The organization’s 2020–2030 Roadmap outlines new objectives, and Azerbaijan is already actively participating in their realization. This roadmap aims to deepen trade cooperation and implement various projects in priority sectors. One key goal is to increase the share of internal trade to at least 10% of D-9’s total trade volume. Given Azerbaijan's vast economic potential and abundant resources, expectations are high.
At previous summits, the development of mutual transportation capabilities was identified as a priority. In this regard, Azerbaijan, with its geopolitical position, strategic transit points, and advanced transport infrastructure, serves as one of the bloc's key nodes. Azerbaijan’s membership will further strengthen the organization.
Like the Organization of Turkic States, D-9 has great potential to become a significant center of power on the global stage. This potential is supported by its extensive geography, human resources, natural wealth, transport and communication networks, and sense of unity.
The unanimous support for Azerbaijan’s candidacy reflects the strong friendship, cooperation, unity, and solidarity with each member country of the organization. As in other international organizations, Azerbaijan remains committed to the core principles of D-9: peace, dialogue, fair order, and equality. The country intends to contribute to the promotion of shared interests, particularly in combating Islamophobia, strengthening Islamic solidarity, and transforming the organization into a formidable force.
Nigar Mammadli
Member of the Milli Majlis
Member of the Working Group on Inter-Parliamentary Relations between Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates.
