The annual Global Baku Forum opened Thursday with urgent calls for dialogue to end the escalating Iran war, a conflict raging on its doorstep. The forum's theme, “Bridging the Divides in a World in Transition,” underscored the growing global instability.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev highlighted the threat to international law and territorial integrity posed by current conflicts. He also addressed the energy security implications, noting that Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz have driven oil prices above $100 a barrel, creating significant challenges for consumers and global markets.
Aliyev stated Azerbaijan, as a member of OPEC Plus, advocates for balanced oil prices and actively mediates solutions. He also confirmed Azerbaijan is increasing gas supplies to the EU to offset disruptions caused by the conflict.
Former European Council President Charles Michel commented that the rising oil prices benefit Russia by diverting global attention and enabling its continued aggression in Ukraine. He stressed the need for Europe to develop its own strategic capabilities.
Hikmet Hajiyev, Aliyev’s chief foreign policy advisor, confirmed Azerbaijan is working to expand energy capacities and explore new avenues for cooperation with the EU in the energy sector. He also expressed concern over the conflict's potential to widen, referencing recent Iranian drone strikes in Azerbaijan.
Hajiyev emphasized diplomacy and dialogue as crucial for resolving the conflict and preventing further geographical expansion of hostilities. William Wexler of the Atlantic Council suggested that a rapid resolution to the Iran war is unlikely without significant concessions from either Iran or the US.
Artis Pabriks, former Latvian defence minister, argued that the current geopolitical climate necessitates accelerating Ukraine's accession to the EU, citing the need for a strong European military force to counter Russia. Michel expressed confidence in overcoming political obstacles to secure EU funding for Ukraine.