(MENAFN- AzerNews)
Nazrin Abdul
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Following the restoration of its sovereignty, Azerbaijan has
initiated a comprehensive program of reconstruction and restoration
in the territories liberated from occupation. Under direct guidance
from the state administration, these efforts have been designated
as a governmental priority. The state is strategically utilizing
all available resources to revitalize these long-occupied regions.
Presently, the focus is on establishing an Economy that meets
modern standards in Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur, with
construction in these areas adhering to the most advanced
practices.
Of course, efficient use of financial resources is essential for
implementing all these projects. It should be noted that after the
war, the funds allocated to be spent by the end of this year amount
to 19 billion manats. This year, 4 billion 855.8 million manats
were allocated from the state budget for the restoration and
reconstruction of the liberated territories. According to the
Ministry of Finance, this amount represents 64.6 percent of the
allocated funds.
Additionally, during the first nine months of the current year,
the government of Azerbaijan allocated 3 billion 137.6 million
manats for the reconstruction and restoration of the liberated
territories. Out of this, 1 billion 728.9 million manats were
financed based on orders given by executives for state capital
investment expenses, which is equal to 61.4 percent of the expenses
intended for that purpose in the current year, and represents an
8.8 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
It should be emphasized that most of the funds were directed
toward infrastructure projects. These projects have reached a
significant scale, with 3,000 kilometers of highways constructed.
Among the overall projects, 45 tunnels are planned, totaling 70
kilometers in length. Building these tunnels and roads in
mountainous areas is no easy task, and the construction of 450
bridges is also planned. Additionally, two international airports
have been commissioned.
In parallel, substantial funds have been allocated for the
return of former displaced persons. The "Great Return" Program,
approved by the Decree of the President on November 16, 2022, is
being successfully implemented. Moving forward, important steps are
being taken to develop the liberated territories and promote their
rich natural potential worldwide. Every village and city that is
built serves as a testament to the economic strength of the
state.
President Ilham Aliyev stated at the swearing-in ceremony on
February 14 that the first stage of the "Great Return" program will
be completed by the end of 2026, with 140,000 displaced people
expected to return to their ancestral lands. He emphasized that
alongside this, all social infrastructure-including hospitals,
schools, and sports facilities-will be built. More than 130 tunnels
and bridges, including 40 tunnels and 90 bridges, are under
construction, highlighting the scale of the work. The entire
electricity industry has been rebuilt, railways are being
constructed, and two international airports have opened, with a
third planned for Lachin. Extensive construction work will
continue, including new houses for the displaced that comply with
modern urban planning standards, while restoring the historical
character of our cities.
As a result of successful socio-economic policies, the
diversification of the economy is progressing. Current statistical
indicators show that Azerbaijan's economy is growing. According to
the report from the State Statistics Committee, the economy grew by
5 percent during January-September of this year. Thus, in the first
nine months of 2024, the gross domestic product (GDP) reached 92
billion 829.5 million manats, reflecting a 4.7 percent increase
compared to the same period last year.
In the past year, added value in the oil and gas sector
increased by 0.9 percent, while the non-oil and gas sector grew by
7.1 percent.
The composition of GDP includes 37.1 percent from industry, 9.6
percent from trade and vehicle repair, 7 percent from transport and
warehousing, 6.4 percent from agriculture, forestry, and fishing,
6.3 percent from construction, 2.4 percent from tourist
accommodation and public catering, 1.8 percent from information and
communication sectors, and 19.2 percent from other sectors. Net
taxes on products and imports accounted for 10.2 percent of GDP.
During the reporting period, the GDP per capita was 9,103
manats.
In conclusion, Azerbaijan is actively pursuing a comprehensive
reconstruction and restoration agenda in the territories liberated
from occupation, prioritizing these efforts under direct government
guidance. Significant financial resources are being allocated to
infrastructure development, with over 19 billion manats earmarked
for various projects, including roads, bridges, and social
facilities. The successful implementation of the "Great Return"
Program aims to resettle displaced persons, further revitalizing
these regions. Economic indicators reflect a positive trajectory,
with GDP growth and diversification efforts showing promise in both
oil and non-oil sectors. Overall, Azerbaijan's commitment to
modernizing its economy and restoring its territories is poised to
yield long-term benefits for its citizens and contribute to
national prosperity.
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