Azerbaijani MP, Director of the Institute for Development and Diplomacy Fariz Ismailzade has said that Azerbaijan’s integration with Central Asia is not merely a political declaration but a tangible partnership built on concrete economic, transport, and energy projects.

Speaking at the international conference “C6: One Region, Shared Future - Enhancing Strategic Dialogue” in Baku, Ismailzade highlighted the rapid strengthening of ties between Azerbaijan and Central Asian countries over the past five years, The Caspian Post reports via local media.

From Symbolism to Substance

He described Azerbaijan’s participation in the Council of Central Asian Heads of State as a symbolic yet strategically significant milestone, achieved through the implementation of major economic initiatives. He also pointed to the country’s expanding ties with China, which create additional opportunities for Central Asian partners within broader Eurasian connectivity frameworks.

Post-War Momentum for Integration

The MP noted that Azerbaijan’s victory in the 44-day second Karabakh War provided a strong boost to regional integration.

“After the Victory, integration dynamics intensified both within the region and beyond. Central Asian countries were among the first to express support for Azerbaijan,” Ismailzade said.

He noted that schools have been built in Karabakh with the participation of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, while new projects are being implemented with the support of Turkmenistan. Political, economic, and financial backing from regional partners has helped deepen cooperation.

C6’s Long-Term Potential

Ismailzade stressed that the C6 format should operate on a permanent basis and be filled with practical initiatives rather than remain a symbolic platform.

“All processes show that integration with Central Asia is not just a statement but a real partnership in economy, transport, and energy. The C6 format has great prospects,” he concluded.