From 17–20 November 2025, an international conference titled “High-Quality Development of the Belt and Road: Concepts and Actions” took place in Beijing, the capital of the People’s Republic of China. Bringing together over 60 delegates from more than 15 European and Asian countries, the event served as an important platform for discussing global cooperation, sustainable development, digital transformation, and the evolving logic of regional connectivity.

Khazar University was represented by its Rector, Dr. Razia Isayeva, who delivered a welcoming address at the opening session. In her remarks, Dr. Isayeva offered an analytical perspective on the new, quality-driven stage of the Belt and Road Initiative. She emphasized that this stage is not only about infrastructure and logistics, but also about knowledge systems, scientific collaboration, digital ecosystems, innovation capacity, and enhanced people-to-people connectivity.

Dr. Isayeva highlighted the transformative role of universities as platforms of intellectual diplomacy and bridges across civilizations. She noted that Azerbaijan, positioned strategically in the South Caucasus, serves as an important connector in both physical and knowledge corridors, contributing to regional stability, exchange, and innovation.

During her address, Dr. Isayeva presented the achievements of Khazar University within its expanding cooperation with Chinese partner institutions. She underscored the dynamic activities of the Confucius Institute, successful student and faculty exchange schemes, joint research initiatives, and a widening portfolio of collaborative programs in science, technology, and innovation. These partnerships, she noted, strengthen not only academic cooperation but also cultural dialogue and mutual understanding.

In her concluding remarks, Dr. Isayeva expressed her honour in representing Khazar University and Azerbaijan on such a prestigious global platform. She reaffirmed her confidence that cooperation with China in education, research, innovation, and culture will continue to deepen through new ambitious projects and long-term strategic partnerships.