On November 12, 2025, President Ilham Aliyev held a meeting in Baku with the newly appointed Presidential Representative in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic and several newly appointed heads of district executive authorities. This meeting was not merely a formal introduction; it symbolized a new stage in Azerbaijan’s regional development policy and the continuation of strategic reforms in public administration. President Aliyev’s remarks contained important messages concerning both socio-economic development in the regions and the importance of trust and responsibility in governance. He particularly emphasized that almost all major infrastructure projects across Azerbaijan’s regions have been completed. This progress does not only refer to the construction of roads, water and gas supply systems, or energy infrastructure — it also reflects the rising standard of living and improved investment climate in the regions. In recent years, projects implemented through the state budget and international cooperation have transformed Nakhchivan and other regions into more stable and developed socio-economic areas. These projects constitute key elements of President Ilham Aliyev’s long-term “Regional Development Strategy.” Strengthening infrastructure has led to the creation of new jobs, the expansion of business activity, and the encouragement of young people to remain in their home regions. As a result, both national and regional stability have been enhanced, maintaining a balanced pattern of socio-economic growth. During the meeting, President Aliyev also drew attention to ongoing personnel reforms within both central and local executive structures. Structural changes and the appointment of new leaders in recent years have significantly increased transparency and efficiency in public administration. These reforms are not limited to the renewal of personnel; they also aim to improve the quality of public services, streamline decision-making processes, and prevent corruption.As the President noted, these measures have helped to “significantly improve the situation” and restore public trust in both central and local government institutions. Another key message of President Aliyev’s speech was the issue of trust and responsibility for the newly appointed officials. His statement — “I am confident that through your work, you will justify this trust and earn the respect of the people” — serves not only as encouragement but also as a strong call to duty. In public administration, trust and transparency are of paramount importance. Every official plays a decisive role in shaping the relationship between the state and its citizens. The primary mission of the new regional leaders is to accelerate socio-economic development, ensure the proper implementation of state policy, and achieve tangible benefits in people’s daily lives. This reflects President Ilham Aliyev’s broader vision — a results-oriented and quality-driven governance model. The November 12, 2025 meeting in Baku thus stands as a clear example of Azerbaijan’s regional development strategy and reform-oriented public administration. The meeting conveyed vital messages about the completion of regional infrastructure projects, the revitalization of the civil service corps, and the strengthening of public trust. As President Aliyev emphasized, trust does not end with an appointment — it must be earned through service to the people. This principle forms a fundamental basis for Azerbaijan’s sustainable development and socio-economic stability.

Bayram Khudayarov

Researcher at the Physics Institute of the Ministry of Science and Education

Founder and admin of the Facebook group “Followers of the Heydar Aliyev School”

Active member of the New Azerbaijan Party (YAP)