At Shusha Forum, Aliyev Reaffirms Backing for Ukraine's Territorial Integrity.

Shusha Media Forum: Tackling Disinformation and Showing Solidarity with Ukraine

According to UATV: Held on July 13 in Azerbaijan, the Shusha Media Forum brought together over 150 journalists, highlighting the growing urgency of combating disinformation and protecting free speech in today’s media environment. A central moment came when Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev used the platform to restate his country’s support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

Aliyev placed his remarks in a historical context, describing Azerbaijan’s time within the Soviet Union as a colonial era. He stressed that

“a country fighting for its independence cannot be defeated”

— a statement reflecting Baku’s stance on sovereignty and self-determination, both for itself and in backing Ukraine.

The president also declared:

“We have always supported and will continue to support Ukraine’s territorial integrity, its sovereignty, and the inviolability of its borders.”

These words underscore Azerbaijan’s commitment to upholding international norms on territorial integrity and sovereignty for nations facing external aggression. Thus, the Shusha Media Forum not only served as a gathering for journalists to debate pressing media issues but also became a showcase for Azerbaijan’s foreign policy position on the global stage.

Azerbaijan’s Political Stance in Support of Ukraine

Beyond its significance for media professionals, the Shusha Media Forum played a key role in articulating Azerbaijan’s political alignment with Ukraine. Aliyev’s statements signal Baku’s willingness to defend the territorial integrity of other states, a move that could strengthen the country’s international standing. Such declarations also have the potential to deepen bilateral cooperation between Azerbaijan and Ukraine, particularly amid the current geopolitical challenges.