The Republic of Azerbaijan commemorates the 107th anniversary of its independence this year, reflecting on its historic legacy and growing international partnerships amid a turbulent global landscape marked by geopolitical instability and shifting legal norms.
Founded on May 28, 1918, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR) holds the distinction of being the first secular and democratic parliamentary republic in the Muslim East. Despite being short-lived—overthrown by Soviet forces in 1920—the ADR laid the groundwork for modern Azerbaijan, introducing progressive reforms such as universal suffrage, including voting rights for women, ahead of many Western nations.
Since regaining independence in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Azerbaijan has charted a course of national resilience, regional leadership, and diplomatic pragmatism. Upholding the principles of sovereignty, mutual respect, and international law, the country has emerged as a significant actor in global energy markets and peacebuilding efforts across the South Caucasus.
One of the notable developments in Azerbaijan’s foreign policy in 2024 was the deepening of bilateral ties with Australia. In March, the Australian Parliament established the Australia–Azerbaijan Friendship Group, a formal recognition of the growing political relationship. This was followed by the first political consultations between the two nations’ foreign ministries, held in Baku on May 1. The dialogue established a structured platform to enhance cooperation in political, economic, humanitarian, and environmental areas.
Climate diplomacy has emerged as a focal point of this evolving relationship. The visit of Azerbaijan’s Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, Mr. Mukhtar Babayev—also the President-Designate of COP29—underscored a shared commitment to sustainable development. In meetings with Australian Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen and other senior officials, the two sides reaffirmed their cooperation on clean energy transitions. Australia’s strong participation in COP29, held in Baku and led by a 600-member delegation, further demonstrated the alignment of their environmental agendas.
Economic relations between the two nations also reached a historic high in 2024, with bilateral trade surpassing USD 1 billion. This milestone positioned Australia as Azerbaijan’s seventh-largest trading partner and opened new avenues for collaboration in renewable energy, agriculture, education, and technology.
The two countries also share a legacy of early gender equality reforms, with Australia granting women the right to vote in 1902 and Azerbaijan following in 1918. This common heritage continues to influence their commitment to inclusive governance, human rights, and civic empowerment—offering potential for joint initiatives in gender policy and public administration.
Regionally, Azerbaijan achieved a major breakthrough in 2024 by concluding a draft peace agreement with Armenia. The accord, rooted in international law and initiated by Azerbaijan, marks a significant step toward long-term peace and normalization of relations between the two neighbors—bringing hope for a more stable South Caucasus.
As Azerbaijan celebrates over a century of statehood, it does so with pride in its democratic roots and confidence in its international role. The strengthening partnership with Australia adds a meaningful dimension to Azerbaijan’s global outreach, rooted in shared values, historical parallels, and strategic interests.
In an increasingly uncertain world, Baku and Canberra are positioning themselves as natural partners in the pursuit of peace, democracy, and sustainable development. As Azerbaijan looks to the future, it continues to embrace cooperation and shared prosperity—welcoming Australia as a valued ally on this path.
