Bishkek: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev announced on Tuesday that Azerbaijan will persist in its efforts to bolster multilateralism in international affairs. Attending the SCO Plus meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Aliyev emphasized his country's commitment to these principles, reflecting Azerbaijan's recent role as chair of the Non-Aligned Movement for four years.

According to Anadolu Agency, Aliyev expressed gratitude to Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov for the invitation to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit. He commended Kyrgyzstan on its socioeconomic progress and increasing influence on the global stage. Aliyev highlighted Kyrgyzstan's election to the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member for 2027-2028 as evidence of international endorsement for its policies.

Addressing developments in the South Caucasus, Aliyev noted the region's transition into a 'zone of peace' following a peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, formalized in Washington, DC, over a year ago. Azerbaijan has since begun supplying petroleum products to Armenia and facilitating the transit of goods from third countries.

Aliyev outlined ongoing efforts with Armenia to boost trade, diversify their economic exchanges, and establish new transport links. He also critiqued the UN for its inaction on previous resolutions concerning the Azerbaijan-Armenia conflict, advocating for mechanisms to expedite the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions. Achieving this, he argued, would enhance the UN's authority and its conflict resolution role.