AZERTAC presents an interview with American economist, professor of sustainable development at Columbia University, director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University, president of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, former director of the Earth Institute at Columbia University, former special adviser to the UN Secretary-General on Sustainable Development Goals Jeffrey Sachs.
- How would you assess the economic potential of the South Caucasus, and Azerbaijan in particular, in the context of global sustainable development?
- The economic potential of the South Caucasus — and Azerbaijan in particular — is significant within the context of global sustainable development. The region should strive for long-term growth by focusing on three core strengths: the development of advanced skills and technical training, the sustainable use of its commodity wealth in minerals, energy resources, and agriculture, and the strategic use of its geographic location as a corridor connecting Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. This position offers opportunities in areas such as transport, digital services, logistics, and tourism. To fully realize this potential, the three countries of the South Caucasus must work closely together. Strengthened regional cooperation will not only support national development goals but also enhance the region’s contribution to broader global sustainability objectives.
- In what direction, in your opinion, can Azerbaijan most effectively use its energy resources to ensure sustainable and diversified development?
- Azerbaijan, together with the other South Caucasus countries, should work towards developing a comprehensive zero-carbon energy strategy for 2050. This strategy should focus on key areas such as carbon capture and storage, hydropower, solar power, and wind power. The South Caucasus region holds vast potential for zero-carbon energy production, but realizing this potential requires significant investment and a well-coordinated approach. Importantly, this strategy should be formulated and implemented at the regional level rather than on a purely national basis to maximize efficiency and impact. By collaborating regionally, the countries can share technology, knowledge, and infrastructure, thereby accelerating their transition to sustainable energy futures.
- What can be the role of international economic institutions (World Bank, UN, EU, etc.) in promoting sustainable development of the South Caucasus?
- The primary challenge facing the South Caucasus is to avoid becoming entangled in geopolitical conflicts similar to those experienced in Ukraine, as such conflicts would be catastrophic for the region. To ensure stability and sustainable development, the South Caucasus should pursue a policy of neutrality, promote strong regional integration, and maintain good relations with all key regional powers, including Russia, Türkiye, Iran, and Saudi Arabia. While maintaining positive relations with the European Union is certainly beneficial, attempts by Azerbaijan or other countries in the region to pursue EU membership would be unwise. Such a move could escalate regional and global tensions and undermine the region’s unique position as a vital East-West and North-South corridor. International economic institutions can play a constructive role by supporting infrastructure development, facilitating dialogue among stakeholders, and providing financial and technical assistance. Their involvement should encourage cooperation rather than competition, helping the South Caucasus to remain a stable and prosperous hub in a complex geopolitical environment.
- How do you assess the role of Azerbaijan in ensuring Europe's energy security in the long term?
- Azerbaijan — and the South Caucasus as a whole — can certainly contribute to Europe’s long-term energy security by exporting green power and green hydrogen. As the EU intensifies its efforts to decarbonize and diversify its energy sources, Azerbaijan’s renewable energy potential becomes strategically important. The country’s access to solar and wind resources, along with its existing energy infrastructure and export corridors, positions it well to meet part of Europe’s growing clean energy demand. By investing in large-scale renewable projects and hydrogen production, Azerbaijan can become a reliable and sustainable energy partner. Furthermore, regional cooperation and alignment with European technical standards will enhance integration and long-term stability in energy trade.
- Can Azerbaijan become one of the key bridges between Europe and Asia, especially in the context of new logistics routes? How do you assess the importance of the Middle Corridor against the backdrop of the current geopolitical situation?
- The Middle Corridor holds significant promise and is critically important for the economic future of the South Caucasus. Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia should work intensively and collaboratively to unlock the full potential of this strategic route. By strengthening infrastructure, streamlining customs procedures, and coordinating transport policies, the three countries can greatly enhance connectivity across Eurasia. They should seek to partner not only with China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the EU’s Global Gateway, but also with key regional powers and the five Central Asian countries. Such cooperation would allow the South Caucasus to position itself as a stable and essential link in global trade networks, especially as geopolitical tensions reshape traditional corridors. Successful development of the Middle Corridor would also bring long-term economic benefits and promote regional stability.
- What challenges do the countries of the South Caucasus face in terms of climate change and environmental sustainability?
- The costs of climate change will be extremely high for the South Caucasus unless the global energy transition is significantly accelerated. The region is already experiencing severe environmental impacts, including water stress, agricultural failures, floods, droughts, forest fires, and landslides — all of which are linked to human-induced climate change. These challenges threaten food security, public health, and economic stability across the region. In response, the South Caucasus urgently needs a robust and well-coordinated adaptation strategy focused on building long-term climate resilience. This includes investments in sustainable water management, climate-smart agriculture, and early warning systems to reduce vulnerability and protect livelihoods.
The integration into the global economy should be built around five key strategies:
First, there needs to be strong regional integration among Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, as this forms the foundation for broader connectivity and cooperation. Second, maintaining good relations with all neighboring countries is essential for ensuring economic stability and open access to markets and transit routes. Third, the region should focus on attracting and implementing strategic investments in 21st-century infrastructure. This includes high-speed rail networks, green hydrogen and green energy production, long-distance electricity transmission, 5G digital infrastructure, data centers, precision agriculture, and systems for advanced water security. Fourth, the development of a highly educated and skilled population is critical for enabling innovation, economic resilience, and competitiveness on a global scale. And fifth, achieving lasting regional peace is fundamental. Without peace, none of the other strategies can be fully effective or sustainable.
- What potential do you see in Azerbaijan in developing a "green" economy and transitioning to renewable energy sources?
- Azerbaijan has very high potential for developing a green economy and accelerating its transition to renewable energy. However, the influence of the fossil-fuel lobby remains strong and often acts as a major obstacle to the necessary transformation. Relying too heavily on fossil fuels would be a strategic mistake, as seen in the case of the United States under the Trump administration. Azerbaijan has an opportunity to leap forward by investing in solar, wind, and green hydrogen, positioning itself as a regional leader in clean energy. Embracing a green transition would not only reduce long-term economic risks but also open doors to international partnerships and sustainable growth.
