Speaker: Successful implementation of SDGs depends on comprehensive approach

Serious concerns about the successful implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) still remain, Speaker of the Azerbaijani Milli Majlis (Parliament) Sahiba Gafarova said, Report informs

Speaking at a panel discussion held within the Sixth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament held in Geneva, Switzerland, Gafarova noted that past experiences show that a comprehensive approach at both national and international levels is necessary.

She stated that Azerbaijan attaches great importance to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and has made significant progress in its implementation:

"Four Voluntary National Reports have already been submitted to the UN High-Level Political Forum. Our government has aligned more than 50 state programs, national development plans and strategies with the Sustainable Development Goals.

The implementation of the Great Return program, which envisages the revival of our country's liberated Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur regions, as well as the return of former internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their native lands, makes an important contribution to the successful implementation of SDGs. Along with the reconstruction work being carried out, more than fifty thousand people already live, work and study in these territories today."

Speaker Gafarova also pointed out that mine contamination of the liberated territories remains the main obstacle to the development of these areas:

"That is why Azerbaijan has adopted 'Activities to combat the threat of mines for safe return, settlement, restoration, welfare and peace' as its 18th national SDG. It has also been proposed to establish this goal as the 18th Sustainable Development Goal of the UN.

In May of 2025, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan signed a Decree on the preparation of a new development strategy for 2027-2030 and the Second Great Return Program. The implementation of these documents will make even greater contributions to the implementation of SDGs."

Gafarova further mentioned that the timely and effective implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development also depends on combining efforts and countries supporting each other's development:

"Humanitarian, economic and technical assistance worth $330 million provided to more than 140 countries over the past five years is a clear example of Azerbaijan's commitment to international cooperation. Since 2018, Azerbaijan has been offering full higher education scholarships to students from member countries of the Non-Aligned Movement and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. The significant and real results of COP29 held in Azerbaijan last year will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the comprehensive implementation of SDGs."