To the Fourth Congress of the Confederation of Trade Unions of Azerbaijan

Dear Congress participants!

I sincerely salute and congratulate you on the start of your fourth congress.

Azerbaijan’s trade unions, having a history of more than a century, further developed in the years of independence and secured a rightful place in the public life of our country. Appreciating the role of trade unions in the solution of social issues and protection of labor rights, nationwide leader Heydar Aliyev had always paid great attention to the activities of the Confederation of Trade Unions of Azerbaijan. Thanks to the care of the great leader, trade unions rebuilt their work in accordance with current public and socioeconomic conditions, maintained and developed their capacity which was built over the course of many years. The legal framework of trade unions is still improving and more favorable conditions created for their activities in our country.

The policies towards modernization, economic and social progress of the Republic of Azerbaijan are bearing fruit. It is no coincidence that in a situation when the profound financial crisis has led to economic decline and rising social tensions in a number of countries, our country managed to protect itself from the impact of the global recession by consistently pursuing measures towards socioeconomic development and well-being. The reforms, the successful implementation of government programs covering various spheres and large-scale infrastructure projects have minimized the level of such social problems as poverty and unemployment. Azerbaijan has emerged in the world as a strong and democratic state, a powerful and reliable partner.

The progress and dynamic development of society are always fraught with new challenges. At present, the greater part of the gross domestic product in Azerbaijan is generated in the private sector. Thousands of businesses set up by domestic and foreign investors, local and multinational companies operate in the country and new jobs are created. We believe that trade unions should be more assertive and take resolute action to protect the social interests and labor rights of Azerbaijani citizens at all enterprises regardless of the form of their ownership. The Government should strengthen the social partnership with the Confederation of Trade Unions of Azerbaijan in this field and pay more attention to the implementation of the general collective agreement signed with it.

The Confederation of Trade Unions of Azerbaijan, which acts as one of the important institutions of civil society today, is the biggest organization in the country. A significant part of its members are young people, who are the guarantor of our future. Taking this into consideration, the trade unions should seek to better protect the rights and interests of working and studying youth, provide help and support for its initiatives, enhance its professional training and employment, and address other important issues.

Dear delegates of the congress!

The development trends of the present stage further enhance the responsibility of trade unions and require them to be prepared for emerging challenges. I am confident that the decisions of the Congress will give a strong impetus to a more efficient operation of your organization, increase the credibility of the Confederation of Trade Unions of Azerbaijan and enhance the atmosphere of social harmony and partnership in our society.

I congratulate you once again and wish the congress every success!

Ilham Aliyev
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku city, 4 February 2013.