A roundtable discussion was held at the Social Research Center on the topic “Social and Political Sciences Facing Modern Challenges: The Roles of Think Tanks, Academic Science, and Universities,” dedicated to President Ilham Aliyev’s speech at the 80th anniversary of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS). The event extensively discussed the main challenges facing social and political sciences in the modern era, the alignment of scientific research with state policy, the role of science in shaping strategic decisions, and the responsibility of the academic environment in the context of global processes.
The roundtable was opened with introductory remarks by Zahid Oruc, Chairman of the Board of the Social Research Center and Member of Parliament. He stated that President Ilham Aliyev's speech at the 80th anniversary of the National Academy of Sciences served the purpose of sharing the spirit of victory and the brilliant chronicle of the 5th anniversary of our victory in the Patriotic War with our scientists, and directing our victory towards our future scientific goals. The head of state once again declared to the world that we won the war through science. Indeed, one of the reasons for our defeat in the 90s, as in all fields, was that our scientists, like others, were caught unprepared in the war with Armenia. They could not unite into a single force. Scientific mobilization only began with the return of the Great Leader to power. Heydar Aliyev's unparalleled role in the formation and development of Azerbaijani science during the Soviet era formed the basis for his return to power and subsequent successes. The leader who visited the Academy on September 21, 1993, showed his trust in the scientists he had trained to lead our country out of chaos. The Great Leader considered science an inexhaustible resource for building an independent state, the foundation of national culture and intellectual identity, a guarantor of economic, technological, and political sovereignty, and a strong army in the fight against the enemy. Now, our sovereignty is placed upon our glorious army, national universities and research institutes, and scientists. It is an honorable mission. The Supreme Commander-in-Chief is also the leader of the 44-day Scientific Victory wars.
Other participants of the event noted that the importance of preserving the Azerbaijani language was particularly emphasized in President Ilham Aliyev's speech. The head of state noted that protecting the purity of our language is the duty of every Azerbaijani citizen. The state, scientists, linguists, writers, poets, journalists, and those involved in politics should approach this issue seriously. The President recalled that he had raised this issue ten years ago and that necessary measures had been taken. He added that the failure to preserve the Azerbaijani language could lead to the weakening of national identity.
The head of state drew attention to our historical and cultural heritage. He stated that the preservation of national values by the Azerbaijani people in the geography they have inhabited for centuries has been possible thanks to our language. The President noted that in some cases, foreign interventions are made into our language, and there is no basis for this. He added that scientists should provide support in this matter and serve as an example for future generations.
The 80-year activity of ANAS was also evaluated at the event. It was noted that the Academy has played a leading role in the scientific development of Azerbaijan. The Great Leader Heydar Aliyev always supported scientists, improved the Academy's activities, and created new scientific research institutes. The head of state noted in his speech that the foundation of the scientific potential achieved today was laid during that period.
President Ilham Aliyev emphasized the importance of the development of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, industry, and the military-industrial complex. He noted that artificial intelligence has already become an integral part of the future development of countries. Azerbaijani scientists must be active in this field and not fall behind. The head of state also noted the importance of renewable energy and geological exploration, drawing particular attention to the work being done in the liberated territories.
In his speech, the President specifically emphasized the study and promotion of Azerbaijani history. He stated that our youth should know the rich history of our nation and disseminate it globally. The head of state noted that the study and promotion of the statehood history of the Azerbaijani people should be conducted on a scientific basis. He added that conducting a scientific struggle against falsifications that distort our history is one of the main tasks of scientists and public organizations.
The issue of preserving toponyms was also discussed. The President stated that the vast majority of toponyms in Western Azerbaijan are of Azerbaijani origin. The head of state recalled that these issues were reflected in historical documents during the Tsarist Russia period. He added that fundamental scientific research, books, and booklets should be prepared in this area so that both our youth and the world community know the truth.
The event also extensively discussed President Ilham Aliyev's emphasis on the importance of technological development in the post-war period. The head of state noted that modern science forms the basis for the strategic development of the economy, industry, and the state. He added that the integration of scientific results into the real sector is one of the main indicators of national development.
Participants of the event noted that the strategic directions defined by the President strengthen Azerbaijan's scientific potential. These directions should be a main priority in the activities of young researchers, university professors, and academics.
At the end of the event, it was emphasized that scientific activity is both a source of knowledge for young researchers and a leading support for national development. At the same time, it was emphasized that President Ilham Aliyev's speech addressed to scientists should always be a reference point for all researchers.