Political scientist: Azerbaijan plays important role in co-op with SCO member countries

Azerbaijan, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, holds vital importance for the SCO's goal of intra-regional connectivity, Pakistani political scientist Basim Reza told Report.

Every major connectivity project, such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which aims to connect Asia and Europe, passes through Azerbaijan, he noted.

"Additionally, as a vibrant and growing economy, Baku is already engaging with SCO member states. Azerbaijan's bilateral trade with China stands at $3.1 billion, with Russia at $4.36 billion, India at $1.43 billion, Pakistan at $28.1 million, and Iran at $29.8 million," he said.

Therefore, the SCO provides great opportunities to enhance the existing trade system between its members and Azerbaijan, he added.

Azerbaijan's geographical location gives it immense strategic importance in various connectivity projects, the political scientist stressed.

"Whether it’s the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) or the North-South Transport Corridor (NSTC), Azerbaijan’s position makes it a key transit point that connects Asia to Europe. Moreover, the SCO promotes a range of connectivity projects based on equal opportunities for all member states, without prioritizing any specific project," he said.

"SCO cooperation on green energy aligns well with the upcoming COP29 agenda, focusing on climate challenges and sustainability. The SCO Year of Ecology Forum highlighted key issues like climate change, resource depletion, and waste management, stressing the need for joint efforts. With green growth, low-carbon development, and renewable technologies gaining traction, SCO countries can use this momentum to strengthen renewable energy markets and present a united front at COP29, showcasing progress in environmental cooperation and green energy transitions," he added.