IGAD and Azerbaijan strengthen ties for regional development and resilience

Building on productive discussions held during COP29 in Baku, the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, hosted a high-level meeting with H.E. Ruslan Rafael Oglu Nasibov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Ethiopia and Djibouti. The dialogue marked an important step in advancing collaboration between IGAD and Azerbaijan in areas critical to regional growth and stability.

The meeting, held at IGAD’s headquarters, centered on exploring opportunities for cooperation in agriculture, education, technology transfer, and post-conflict recovery. These priority areas align with IGAD's strategic goals to foster resilience and promote sustainable development across its member states.

Dr. Gebeyehu stressed the importance of innovative partnerships in addressing regional challenges and strengthening IGAD’s capacity to implement impactful programs. He noted, “IGAD is committed to working with partners like Azerbaijan to advance regional resilience and deliver tangible outcomes that improve the lives of our people. This collaboration reflects our shared vision for sustainable development through knowledge sharing, capacity building, and technology-driven solutions.”

Ambassador Nasibov highlighted Azerbaijan’s readiness to contribute to IGAD’s initiatives through the exchange of expertise and resources. He underscored Azerbaijan’s success in post-conflict reconstruction and technology-driven agricultural solutions as key areas where the country could support IGAD’s goals. “Azerbaijan values its growing relationship with IGAD and stands ready to share its experiences in fostering sustainable development and resilience in key sectors,” said Ambassador Nasibov.

The discussions also explored the potential for expanding educational partnerships to enhance skills development and knowledge transfer within IGAD member states. By fostering collaboration in these areas, IGAD and Azerbaijan aim to address pressing challenges such as food insecurity, climate change, and post-conflict recovery, while creating opportunities for long-term socio-economic growth.

This meeting underscores IGAD’s ongoing efforts to cultivate global partnerships that align with its mission to promote peace, security, and development in the Horn of Africa. The collaboration with Azerbaijan represents a forward-looking approach to leveraging international expertise and resources for the benefit of IGAD’s member states.

By:  Kanto Okanta