Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev has accused outgoing US President Joe Biden of favouring Armenia, and expressed hope for a renewed strategic dialogue after US president-elect Donald Trump returns to office. 

Political observers note that Aliyev’s comments signal frustration over perceived double standards from the current US leadership, a theme frequently voiced by the Azerbaijani president. Speaking to local TV channels on January 7, he also criticised EU members, in particular France, for “interference”. The message was similar to that conveyed by Aliyev in an interview with Russia’s Rossiya Segodnya agency in December, in which he signalled his alignment with Trump and other rightwing, illiberal leaders. 

Commenting on Washington’s role in the region, Aliyev argued that the Biden administration has “undermined ties” by favouring Armenia, contrasting this stance with “positive cooperation” under former presidents Bill Clinton, George Bush and Trump. 

“They [the current US administration] champion Ukraine’s territorial integrity but criticise us for restoring our own,” he said. 

Aliyev insisted that equitable engagement would enhance stability in the South Caucasus, calling for consistency in the application of international law. He highlighted past collaboration with US security and intelligence agencies as a model for future partnerships. 

He concluded by saying an improved Azerbaijan-US relationship could bring concrete benefits to both sides if mutual respect prevails.

Despite energy partnerships with the EU, Aliyev criticised Brussels for providing arms funding to Armenia through what he termed a “so-called peace facility”. He also faulted French President Emmanuel Macron for “constant interference” and attempts to boycott COP29. 

“We are ready for dialogue but only based on mutual respect,” he said, suggesting that unilateral policies undermine the EU’s credibility in the region. 

Analysts point out that Azerbaijan is currently a key gas supplier to multiple EU member states, making stable relations a mutual interest. Aliyev said that trust is essential: while Azerbaijan remains open to cooperation on trade and energy, it will not tolerate initiatives that weaken its security. Observers believe the stark differences on the Armenia issue could hamper deeper EU-Azerbaijan integration if not addressed. Still, Aliyev reiterated that constructive engagement, especially in the energy sector, could yield tangible rewards if executed fairly.

Embassy attack 

On Iran, Aliyev condemned an attack on Azerbaijan’s Tehran embassy as “organised terror” and demanded accountability for an Iranian cleric’s vitriolic remarks. 

Emphasising that “no one should interfere in our affairs,” he presented Azerbaijan as an emerging regional power ready to strengthen its defence if neighbours opt for rearmament. 

The president said Tehran’s failure to rein in provocative acts could spur further tensions, although he reiterated Azerbaijan’s interest in preserving good-neighbourly ties. 

Defence analysts suggest Baku’s commitment to ramping up security is a direct response to perceived threats from multiple directions, not just Iran. Aliyev implied that any repeat of terror incidents would prompt a far stronger diplomatic and security response. The president said that maintaining sovereignty is Azerbaijan’s top priority, and hostile rhetoric or actions would be met firmly.

Karabakh reconstruction 

Aliyev cited the liberation of Karabakh, which was under Armenian control until it was retaken by Azerbaijani forces, as a turning point that allows Azerbaijan to chart its own course without undue external pressure. He reiterated that assertive nationhood, bolstered by military victories, is helping Azerbaijan stand confidently on the global stage.

“Our victory in 2020 changed everything,” Aliyev said, calling it both a source of national pride and a driver of policy independence. 

Officials within his administration highlight ongoing reconstruction efforts in former conflict zones, with roughly 10,000 people already resettled in newly rebuilt towns and villages. 

The president urged foreign investors to seize new opportunities in infrastructure, green energy and technology within Karabakh.

Azerbaijan’s 2024 economic growth exceeded 4%, with the non-oil sector expanding by over 6%. Aliyev reported a rise in foreign exchange reserves to $72bn, while external debt stands at 7.2% of GDP—factors he said boost the country’s fiscal resilience. 

Aliyev stressed that a stable macroeconomic environment would attract more foreign investment, particularly in industrial and high-tech sectors. He attributed these gains to ongoing structural reforms aimed at curbing corruption and fostering transparency. 

The president urged Azerbaijani companies to take advantage of global trends, citing digital transformation as a major opportunity. Independent analysts say Azerbaijan’s diversified economic model has significantly reduced reliance on oil and gas exports, creating a more balanced outlook. Aliyev wrapped up his remarks on the economy by pledging continued support for private enterprise and job creation across the country.