Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev has set out Baku’s case for a stronger international role in remarks at the Shusha Global Media Forum. Speaking at the event, he argued that influence rests on military strength, strategic partnerships, and the ability to defend national interests independently of major powers. On foreign policy, Aliyev noted Azerbaijan’s relationships with European institutions were mixed, but noted a recent diplomatic reset with the European Commission. He also highlighted a major upgrade in ties with Washington, describing relations with the Trump administration as excellent and noting their elevation to a strategic partnership