Aliyev Outlines Strategic Sovereignty at Shusha Global Media Forum

President Ilham Aliyev opened the 4th Shusha Global Media Forum in Shusha on July 13, 2026, using the event to define Azerbaijan's role as a "middle power" and strategic transit hub. Addressing 160 guests from 53 countries, Aliyev detailed a diplomatic doctrine centered on strategic autonomy, multilateral cooperation, and regional stability via a proposed "3+3" format involving local actors from the South Caucasus and neighboring states.

Aliyev emphasized a strong strategic partnership with the United States under President Donald Trump, contrasting this with the previous Biden administration's policies. He credited the Trump administration with facilitating a peace framework between Azerbaijan and Armenia. On the energy front, he highlighted Azerbaijan's role as an indispensable hub, noting that gas exports reached 25 billion cubic metres in 2025 and supplies to the European Union have grown 65% since 2022.

Despite economic ties with the European Union, Aliyev expressed sharp criticism of European political institutions. He accused the European Parliament and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe of utilizing double standards and attacking Azerbaijan without grounds. He warned that the country has seriously considered withdrawing from the Council of Europe, claiming such a move would go unnoticed domestically.