Statement by H.E. Mr. Tofig F. Musayev

Permanent Representative of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United Nations

at the High-level meeting of the General Assembly on the overall review of the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society

16 December 2025

Mr. Chair,

Two decades after the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), digital transformation has become indispensable to sustainable development. Digital technologies increasingly shape how societies govern, learn, innovate and connect. Yet the benefits of this transformation remain unevenly distributed.

Azerbaijan believes that universal, affordable, secure and meaningful connectivity is a foundational enabler of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Achieving this requires strengthened international cooperation, predictable financing for digital development, and policies that promote technology transfer, capacity-building and skills development.

Last month, Azerbaijan hosted the World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25), which provided an important platform to implement the principles of the WSIS vision into concrete development-oriented actions, particularly in support of universal and meaningful connectivity.

At the national level, Azerbaijan has made digital transformation a strategic priority and will advance this agenda through its Digital Economy Development Strategy for 2026–2029, which aims to promote inclusive growth and a resilient digital economy aligned with the WSIS vision and the SDGs and focuses on expanding high-quality digital infrastructure, strengthening digital skills, and fostering innovation across the economy.

Azerbaijan has invested substantially in broadband expansion, digital public services and innovation across government and industry. Our ASAN Xidmət model — internationally recognized for its transparent, efficient and citizen-centred approach — demonstrates how digital technologies, combined with institutional reform, can enhance inclusivity, improve service delivery and strengthen trust between citizens and the State.

Azerbaijan is also advancing regional digital connectivity through the Digital Silk Way initiative, aimed at strengthening secure and resilient trans-Eurasian information infrastructure and supporting broader regional integration. In parallel, as part of our post-conflict reconstruction efforts, we are developing smart and sustainable cities in the liberated territories, integrating digital infrastructure, green technologies and innovation ecosystems to support inclusive growth and create opportunities for youth employment and skills development.

We are equally committed to addressing capability gaps by investing in digital literacy, STEM education and emerging technology skills, with particular attention to youth, women and rural communities. Empowering people to participate meaningfully in the digital transformation is essential to ensuring that technology becomes a driver of opportunity and resilience for all.

The WSIS+20 review is therefore not only a moment to assess progress, but an opportunity to renew our collective resolve. Azerbaijan stands ready to work with all Member States and stakeholders to advance an inclusive, equitable and sustainable digital future — one in which every country can shape its digital development path and every person can benefit from the opportunities of the Information Society.

Thank you