Baku welcomed the world's leading digital thinkers this week, and the atmosphere in the city felt very different. What once seemed like distant goals for Azerbaijan's tech future are now becoming reality, as the country steps confidently onto the global stage of digital development.

As she welcomed participants of the World Telecommunication Development Conference of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the capital reaffirmed its ambition to build an inclusive, secure and sustainable digital future.

Hosting the ITU's conference in Baku is more than symbolic. It marks the first time that this prestigious telecommunications event is held in the South Caucasus or Central Asia and it underscores Azerbaijan's growing influence in global digital development.

President Ilham Aliyev described the conference as a platform to deepen cooperation across regulators, international organizations and private sector actors. He emphasized that technology and connectivity are not only economic drivers but also moral responsibilities.“In the modern era, no country and no person should be left out of the digital future.”

Azerbaijan's digital transformation is not simply based on ambition. It is supported by concrete achievements in digital infrastructure.

According to the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, nearly all households now have access to fiber optic broadband, and the country is close to providing 100 percent high speed coverage nationwide. ITU data shows 100 percent mobile cellular network coverage, including universal access to at least 3G. Broadband infrastructure has been a sustained national priority. Rural telephone stations have been connected to optical fiber, while urban districts increasingly rely on GPON technology.

This means that Azerbaijan leads its region with nearly universal broadband coverage and a solid base for digital inclusion.

Azerbaijan is reducing its reliance on oil and gas by elevating ICT as one of the primary drivers of its non oil economy. Innovation and digitalization are central to this shift.

The“Online Azerbaijan” program aims to connect every household and business with high speed internet through public and private cooperation. The Innovation and Digital Development Agency supports startups, research and technology transfer while promoting an innovation culture. Analysts also note that Azerbaijan is prioritizing artificial intelligence as a transformative force in the economy.

Digital identity, e-government and cybersecurity

Connectivity is only part of the story. Azerbaijan has also taken big strides in digital identity and e-governance:

More than 65% of the population now uses a digital ID, according to the Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport.

The“SIMA” biometric digital signature system, referred to by President Aliyev, is integrated into dozens of public information systems, helping make government services more efficient and accessible.

Cybersecurity is central to the strategy: Azerbaijan has significantly improved its ranking in the ITU's Global Cybersecurity Index, cementing its commitment to protecting critical infrastructure.

Baku as an international digital cooperation hub

One of the most strategic developments is the plan to establish an ITU Regional Acceleration Center in Baku. According to ITU documentation, the center will join the global innovation network and is scheduled for launch in 2025. It will serve the broader CIS region and support cross border digital cooperation, startup development and new technology initiatives.

President Aliyev noted that Baku is not only a telecommunications center but also an international hub for digital cooperation. This reflects the country's aim to become a major connector between Europe and Asia within the global digital economy.

The high stakes opportunity and the challenge ahead

• Azerbaijan's achievements highlight several strategic advantages.
• Digital inclusion through nearly universal broadband coverage
• Economic diversification through ICT sector growth
• Strategic geopolitical positioning as a bridge between Europe and Asia
• Strengthened security posture through cybersecurity development

However, several challenges must be addressed. These include ensuring high quality internet across all regions, closing the digital skills gap, balancing national security with international openness and sustaining long term investment for innovation initiatives.

The ITU conference reflects Azerbaijan's vision not only to participate in global digital development but to help shape its direction. With mature digital identity systems, expanding infrastructure and new international partnerships, Azerbaijan is positioning Baku as a digital crossroads.

President Aliyev expressed confidence that the discussions and decisions taken in Baku will influence global digital progress for years to come. For a country once defined primarily by energy resources, the future is increasingly being built through digital innovation and connectivity

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