AGP Executive Report

Regional AI: At the Awaza summit, Kazakhstan proposed a joint framework for responsible AI, while Tajikistan called for a regional AI center in Dushanbe. Leaders also backed closer digital cooperation across Central Asia and Azerbaijan. Digital Justice: Azerbaijan joined other Turkic States at an October 7 meeting focused on using technology to make justice systems more efficient and accessible. Skills and Industry: Baku Engineering University hosted a session on the 4IR Academy, which gives students access to technology courses through Coursera. Azerbaijan has also begun local production of OR-4 rifles through a joint venture with Israel’s ARI Arms—the country’s first facility of its kind. Space and Energy: Azercosmos has launched an AI platform, while Azerbaijan’s 3 GW solar plan links renewable-energy growth with local manufacturing.

Regional E-commerce: At the October 8 summit, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov proposed a shared e-commerce platform for Central Asia and Azerbaijan, backed by better delivery, warehousing, customs and shipment tracking. Industrial Technology: Azerbaijan and Türkiye agreed to expand industrial-zone cooperation, including digitalization, innovation, energy efficiency and green technologies. Space and AI: Azercosmos launched Platerra, an AI platform that analyzes satellite images and turns them into geospatial information to support faster decisions. Space Research: Eighty Azerbaijani students, researchers and scientists took part in the Antalya International Astronautical Congress; the country submitted 814 papers, 28% more than last year. Green Manufacturing: A planned 3 GW solar-panel manufacturing complex in Alat is set to produce panels, silicon crystals and components, with facilities due to begin opening in 2027.

Space Research: Azerbaijani researchers made a strong showing at the 77th International Astronautical Congress in Antalya. The 80-member delegation presented work across space science and technology; 814 papers from Azerbaijan were submitted, up 28% year on year, placing the country second among 108 participating nations. Digital Cooperation: Azerbaijan and the UK signed a memorandum and roadmap on transport and digital development, covering areas including AI and cybersecurity. Azerbaijan and Estonia also discussed cooperation in AI, innovation and technology. Caspian Science: With the sea’s level continuing to fall, Kazakhstan is developing a regional protection program and plans a dedicated research institute. Azerbaijan has called for a systematic scientific approach and greater information-sharing to address the environmental risks.

Space & Comms: Turkish defense firm ASELSAN unveiled the Astralink low-Earth-orbit satellite constellation (Gökbağı) at the 77th International Astronautical Congress in Antalya, aiming for faster, more resilient secure communications and building a Türkiye-led LEO network. Humanitarian Tech Logistics: Azerbaijan dispatched a new humanitarian shipment of electrical equipment to Ukraine from Sumgayit Technologies Park—cables, wires, transformers and more—valued at 2.5 million manats under a presidential order, continuing support for Ukraine’s electricity supply. Digital Governance: Azerbaijan’s Finance Minister met the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) to discuss financing for national digital priorities, including AI, innovation and cybersecurity, alongside reforms to digitalize public financial management. Azerbaijan-UK Tech & Green Deals: In Baku, Azerbaijan and the UK signed a protocol and four documents covering green energy, transport connectivity and urban mobility, including a roadmap linking UK Export Finance with Azerbaijan’s digital development and transport ministry. Education & Capacity Building: ADA University launched the new academic year of its “One Teacher’s Manifesto” professional development program in Gazakh, training teachers and school principals via in-person and online sessions. Regional Environment: Kazakhstan launched an interstate program with UNDP to protect the Caspian Sea, targeting biodiversity, pollution control and improved environmental monitoring as water levels hit a 48-year low. Policy & Trust: President Ilham Aliyev addressed the 4th Baku Dialogue conference on missing persons, stressing trust-building and practical mechanisms to determine fates after conflict.

Digital Public Finance: Azerbaijan’s Finance Minister Sahil Babayev met DCO Secretary-General Deemah AlYahya to discuss financing for digital transformation, including AI, innovation and cybersecurity, alongside reforms to digitize public financial management. Telecom & AI Ecosystem: Azercell CEO Zarina Zeynalova also met AlYahya, focusing on how telecom firms can evolve into AI-driven digital service and data players to support Azerbaijan’s digital agenda. Azerbaijan-UK Tech & Green Deals: At the 8th Azerbaijan-UK Joint Intergovernmental Commission in Baku, both sides signed a protocol and four cooperation documents spanning green energy, transport connectivity and urban mobility, with added emphasis on digital economy and innovation. Space & Peace in Practice: Azercosmos highlighted Earth observation and GIS powered by satellite analytics and AI at the 77th International Astronautical Congress in Antalya, where the “Antalya Declaration on Space for Peace” was adopted. Counter-Drone for Armored Vehicles: ParaZero and ThirdEye unveiled an integrated detect-and-defeat counter-UAS setup, pairing ThirdEye’s drone detection with ParaZero’s net-based interception for vehicles and critical sites. Education Link-Up: Baku State University and Caucasus International University signed an MoU to run joint projects, research, conferences and staff/student exchanges aligned with international standards.

Digital Cooperation & AI: Azerbaijan’s Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov met Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) Secretary-General Deemah AlYahya to push digital transformation, AI, startup support, digital trade, and productivity via innovation. US-Azerbaijan Strategic Partnership: FM Jeyhun Bayramov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed normalization progress with Armenia and reviewed 2026 cooperation gains across energy, hydrocarbon projects, investment, digital technologies, and trade. Middle Corridor Logistics: Alat Free Economic Zone plans a cargo airport opening by late March/early April 2027, aiming to cut customs and transit delays and scale capacity from 500,000 tons to at least 2 million tons annually. Infrastructure & Connectivity Conference: A German-Azerbaijani Connectivity Conference opened in Baku to attract German/European finance and tech for transport, green energy, and digital connectivity along the Middle Corridor. Rare-Disease Diagnostics: Israeli Geneyx Genomex partnered with Canadian EpiSign Inc. to speed rare-disease diagnosis by combining genetic analysis with gene “on/off” switching detection. Education & Mobility: Azerbaijan will host 23 Chinese students under an Intergovernmental Scholarship Program across multiple universities. Defense Industry Spotlight: Romania discussed defense-industry cooperation projects with Azerbaijan during ADEX 2026 talks in Baku.

Green Tech & Food Security: Azerbaijan plans a 230-hectare greenhouse zone in liberated territories, focused on intensive production with modern technologies to boost higher-value crops. Digital Cooperation: Azerbaijan and the Digital Cooperation Organization expand ties, with priorities including digital transformation, innovation, AI, and startup ecosystem growth. AI in Everyday Services: Nar (Azerfon) launched AiNar, an AI customer assistant inside the Nar+ app for 24/7 support and in-app service requests. Defense & Research-to-Industry: Baku Engineering University (BEU) was recognized at ADEX 2026 for applied lab research, showcasing a LoRa P2P-based “Loko GPS Tracker.” Energy & Infrastructure Links: Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are developing Caspian cargo ferry engineering for rail-wagon transport across the sea. Science & Space Community: An Azerbaijani delegation attended the 77th International Astronautical Congress in Türkiye, highlighting Azerbaijan’s high volume of submitted research abstracts. Education & Talent Exchange: 23 Chinese students received rights to study in Azerbaijan under an intergovernmental scholarship program.

Green Industry & Food Security: Azerbaijan plans a 230-hectare greenhouse zone in the liberated territories, using modern intensive greenhouse tech to boost higher-value crops. Digital Trade & Transport: Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and Georgia rolled out the Digital Trade Corridor on the TITR, linking rail systems via a single-window setup; the Tez Customs module cut paperless transit clearance from 8 hours to 30 minutes and reduced delivery times from 38 days to 13–17, with a target of 10–12 days. Health Tech & Manufacturing: President Ilham Aliyev attended the inauguration of Gen Pharma Caucasus Manufacturing Operations’ pharmaceutical plant in Pirallahi Industrial Park, aimed at expanding local production and reducing import dependence. Energy Cooperation: SOCAR Downstream was selected as project management consultant for the Congo’s SNPC refinery modernization (CORAF), supporting the Pre-FEED phase. Innovation & Culture Tech: Azerbaijan will host the 6th Booktrailer International Film Festival, adding new categories including AI-created book trailers. Green Transition Dialogue: Azerbaijan and Sweden discussed green transition and innovation through Sweden’s “Impact Pioneers ’26 EUROPE” program. Defense Readiness: Azerbaijan, Turkey and Uzbekistan rehearsed drone, cyber and electronic warfare scenarios in the “Power of Unity-2026” exercise in Hojavend.

AI & Cybersecurity: Azerbaijan warns of AI-powered cyberattacks by foreign crime networks, as AI tools keep spreading into fraud and automation. Defense & Drones: Azerbaijan, Turkey and Uzbekistan staged the “Power of Unity-2026” drills in Hojavend, with heavy unmanned systems and electronic warfare training. ADEX 2026 Tech Showcase: China’s J-10CE fighter drew attention at Baku’s ADEX, signaling growing interest in Chinese aviation for the local market. Green Energy Infrastructure: Siemens Energy and Green Corridor Alliance signed an MoU to study electricity transmission cooperation for the Trans-Caspian Green Energy Corridor. Regional Connectivity & Finance: CAMCA Forum 2026 in Baku focused on cross-border fintech pilots and digital settlement links across Central Asia and the Caucasus. Energy Prices: IEA chief Fatih Birol warned higher diesel costs from geopolitical shocks could fuel global inflation. Society & Education: Turkey’s government stayed publicly silent on Azerbaijan’s school dress rules amid headscarf-related controversy. Human Stories: In Pakistan, an Azerbaijani woman in a gang-rape case was sent home to Baku with police escort after suspects confessed.

ADEX 2026 Wrap-Up: Azerbaijan’s 6th International Defence Exhibition (ADEX 2026) closed in Baku with a record 270+ companies from 14 countries, plus signed cooperation and training documents—showing how Baku is sharpening its defense-industry strategy. AI & Cybersecurity: Azerbaijan’s State Security Services warned that organized cybercriminals are using AI to make fraud messages more convincing, targeting officials and citizens with “urgent” prompts and fake official accounts. AI in Government: Azerbaijan and SpaceXAI expanded cooperation on AI for government services, signaling faster adoption of AI tools in public-sector workflows. Energy Corridor Tech: Siemens Energy and Green Corridor Alliance signed an MoU in Berlin to explore electricity transmission cooperation for the Trans-Caspian Green Energy Corridor, linking Central Asia renewables to Azerbaijan and Europe. Regional Connectivity Finance: At CAMCA Forum 2026 in Baku, fintech leaders discussed cross-border payments and shared infrastructure to help companies enter new markets without starting from zero. Diplomacy & Security Drills: “Power of Unity-2026” brought 3,500 troops from Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan together in Karabakh for drone, electronic warfare, and sea-incident simulations. International Cooperation: Azerbaijan’s special representative met Swiss officials in Bern on digital tech, innovation, green energy, and humanitarian demining, alongside Armenia-Azerbaijan normalization and transport connectivity.

ADEX 2026 Wrap-Up: Azerbaijan’s 6th Azerbaijan International Defence Exhibition (ADEX 2026) concluded in Baku with a record 270+ companies from 14 countries, with deals spanning training, research, technology, and logistics. Joint Military Tech Drills: “Power of Unity-2026” brought 3,500 troops from Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan to Hojavend for first-ever combined rehearsals focused on drone warfare, electronic attacks, and unmanned systems—using 130+ drones and dozens of armored vehicles and artillery. AI Cybersecurity Alert: Azerbaijan’s State Security Service warned that foreign organized cybercrime networks are using AI to run more convincing fraud schemes targeting officials and citizens, urging people to treat urgent money or data requests as suspicious. Green Power Corridor Talks: Siemens Energy and the Green Corridor Alliance signed an MoU in Berlin to explore electricity transmission cooperation for the Trans-Caspian Green Energy Corridor. Eurasia Connectivity Push: A US-focused Eurasia connectivity push (TRIPP) was highlighted as moving from concept to commercial planning, tying road/rail/energy/data links to the Middle Corridor. Diplomatic Tech Cooperation: Azerbaijan and Switzerland discussed expanding ties in digital technologies, innovation, and humanitarian demining during meetings in Bern.

ADEX 2026 Wrap-Up: Azerbaijan’s 6th Azerbaijan International Defence Exhibition (ADEX 2026) concluded in Baku with record participation—over 270 companies from 14 countries—plus signed cooperation documents spanning training, research and technology, and logistics. Cybersecurity Alert: Azerbaijan’s State Security Service warns that foreign organized cybercrime groups are using AI to run more convincing fraud, targeting officials and citizens with “urgent” messages that push victims to fake law-enforcement accounts and foreign transfers. Defense Tech Diplomacy: On ADEX sidelines, Azerbaijan’s Deputy Defense Minister Agil Gurbanov met a U.S. DoD representative to discuss next-gen defense technology infrastructure and military-technical cooperation, including unmanned systems. Business & Investment Reform: Azerbaijan launched a new agency merging SME support, investment promotion, and export promotion to connect entrepreneurs with capital and global markets. Regional Connectivity Risk: Experts flagged Caspian Sea water-level decline and shallowing as a potential long-term threat to the Middle Corridor’s sustainability and costs. Tech Talent for Women: Bir’s “Ctrl is hers” program began intensive training for 66 women across cybersecurity, development, data, UX/UI, QA, and cloud/DevOps. Azerbaijan–Switzerland Talks: Baku and Bern discussed bilateral ties, digital technologies, renewable energy, and humanitarian demining, alongside Armenia-Azerbaijan normalization and regional security.

Cybersecurity: Azerbaijan’s State Security Services warns that organized cybercriminals are using AI to make fraud messages more convincing, pushing victims to send money or share personal data via fake “official” accounts. Defense Tech & Trade: At ADEX 2026, Azerbaijan’s Deputy Defense Minister met a U.S. DoD representative to discuss next-gen defense tech upgrades and cooperation, while Turkish and Chinese defense firms showcased aircraft and unmanned systems, including China’s J-10CE model displayed for the Azerbaijani market. Clean Energy & Connectivity: An Azerbaijan-EU clean energy business roundtable in Brussels focused on renewables, grid links, and European private-sector participation, with plans to expand wind and solar and build “green energy corridors.” AI & Governance: Azerbaijan’s Constitutional Court delegation discussed AI in constitutional review, including using AI as an analytical tool for drafting judicial acts. Regional Transport Risk: Experts at CAMCA flagged Caspian Sea water decline and shallowing as a growing threat to the Middle Corridor’s sustainability and costs. Women in Tech: Bir’s “Ctrl is hers” program began intensive training for 66 selected women across multiple IT tracks.

ADEX-2026 Defense Tech: China’s J-10CE fighter model with Azerbaijani markings drew attention at the Baku expo, signaling deeper Chinese aviation sales interest in the region. OTS Defense Industry Roadmap: The Organization of Turkic States held its 2nd defense-industry heads meeting in Baku, adopting a 2027 cooperation roadmap covering joint R&D, co-production, localization, and new technologies. Unmanned Systems Update: Russia’s Supercam S350 drone producer said it is updating production to match shifting battlefield needs, including upgrades to counter electronic warfare. Green Power Push: Azerbaijan’s foreign policy aide said the country is becoming an electricity exporter via green technologies while keeping hydrocarbons central to energy security. Energy Diplomacy: Azerbaijan and Greece discussed expanding energy, transport, trade, and digital technologies, with emphasis on European energy security and new routes. Digital Governance Abroad: Azerbaijan introduced its ASAN Khidmet people-powered public service model to Caribbean countries at a UN-led forum. Earthquake Monitoring: A 4.1 quake hit Zaqatala, recorded by Azerbaijan’s seismic center. AI in the Spotlight: GPT-6 Astra reportedly deciphered a 217-year-old Napoleon message, highlighting faster code-breaking with modern neural tools.

ADEX 2026 Defence Push: Azerbaijan unveiled a new domestically produced NATO-compatible assault rifle based on the M4 platform and showcased drones and robotic systems, while signing defense industry deals worth over $500M, including cooperation with Türkiye and ASELSAN. AI in Government: Azerbaijan’s Digital Development ministry signed an MoU with SpaceXAI to trial Grok-based AI for public services and digital transformation. Regional Security Cooperation: The OTS defense industry heads met in Baku and adopted a 2027 roadmap for joint R&D, co-production, localization and technology cooperation. Energy & Trade Links: Azerbaijan and Greece advanced energy and transport cooperation in Athens, with bilateral trade up sharply and discussions on new routes and digital technologies. Turkic Connectivity: The OTS Secretary General highlighted the Middle Corridor’s growth and future space/digital trade initiatives at a CAMCA forum in Baku. Science & Safety: A 4.1-magnitude earthquake hit Zaqatala, and a new study from NYU Abu Dhabi links Pacific climate swings to global ocean oxygen changes. Digital Culture & Education: Azerbaijani language classes resumed at Peking University, and the Mugham Center hosted an international composition competition gala.

ADEX 2026 Defense Push: Azerbaijan’s ADEX-2026 and Securex Caspian opened at Baku Expo Center with 53 countries and 280 companies, spotlighting new defense tech and domestic production. Turkish-Azerbaijani Deals: Türkiye sealed $500M+ in defense contracts with Azerbaijan, including 14 Hürkuş-II trainer aircraft, Mızrak loitering munitions, Antidot systems, and the Barbaros coastal defense system, plus an ALP-100 radar MoU. ASELSAN Expansion: ASELSAN and partners signed a term sheet to set up a strategic production facility in Nakhchivan and pursue local tech transfer for laser guidance kits, precision munitions, and air defense systems. OTS Industrial Cooperation: OTS defense-industry heads met in ADEX-2026 to discuss joint production, R&D, engineering talent, and new technologies. AI for Public Services: Azerbaijan’s digital ministry and SpaceXAI signed an MoU to test Grok-based AI for government services, aiming for broader rollout across public institutions. Railway AI Safety: Azerbaijan Railways is seeking AI startup solutions to detect and classify dangerous obstacles on tracks in real time and in all weather. Trust, Media, and AI Risks: At the CICA Media Forum in Baku, President Aliyev stressed media literacy and warned that AI-made fake content undermines public trust. Regional Security Drill: “Power of Unity – 2026” ran in Khojavend with Azerbaijan, Türkiye, and Uzbekistan, featuring thousands of troops, drones, air defense, and observers from nine countries.