- By Tenel
- 09 may 2024, 20:30
Young entrepreneurs of Azerbaijan met with the participants of the international innovation ecosystem
Strengthening Cross-Border Ties: Reflections from the "Cross-Border Innovation: Strengthening Azerbaijan-Hungary Friendship" Conference
The recent international conference titled "Cross-Border Innovation: Strengthening Azerbaijan-Hungary Friendship," organized by the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication (CAERC) through the "Enterprise Azerbaijan" portal, marked a significant milestone in the burgeoning partnership between Azerbaijan and Hungary. Held at the Small and Medium Business Development Agency, the event was a vibrant forum for scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators, underscoring the deepening ties between the two nations.
Opening Remarks and Highlights
The conference was inaugurated with encouraging words from Hikmet Mammadov, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Agency, who praised the evolving innovation ecosystem that aptly meets the modern challenges. Ramil Huseyn, Deputy Executive Director of CAERC, highlighted the robust Azerbaijan-Hungary relations, expressing optimism about ongoing successful collaborations within the Organization of Turkic States and initiatives like the "Green Energy" corridor.
Innovations in Education and Startups
Matanat Musayeva, head of the "Enterprise Azerbaijan" portal, introduced the second iteration of their successful "Startup School" program, which has garnered significant attention due to its impactful outcomes in nurturing local and international startups. The conference also enjoyed contributions from Peter Balog, a scholarship student from "Mathias Corvinus Collegium" University, who shared valuable insights from his internship experiences concerning exchange programs and innovations.
Panel Discussions: A Deep Dive into Innovation
The event featured three engaging panel discussions:
- Economic Landscape: This panel focused on the role of innovation in development, with discussions surrounding state innovation policy and venture capitals.
- Fundamentals of the Future: Education and innovation were the crux of this discussion, emphasizing the integration of innovative practices in educational frameworks.
- Innovation Ecosystem: Panelists deliberated on how the startup ecosystem can bolster economic development and influence sectors like education, science, and agriculture.
Expert Insights and Future Directions
The conference was rich with expert opinions, including insights from Ramil Maharramov of the World Bank, and Jaba Moldiz from "Mathias Corvinus Collegium" University. Representatives from various Azerbaijani sectors, including agriculture, education, and digital development, provided a holistic view of the innovation landscape and its integration across different sectors.
Conclusion
The "Cross-Border Innovation" conference not only highlighted the dynamic innovation ecosystem of Azerbaijan but also fostered a collaborative platform for future projects and partnerships. With the ongoing support from initiatives such as those ordained by President Ilham Aliyev to enhance non-oil sector competitiveness, Azerbaijan is setting a definitive course towards a robust economic future filled with promising opportunities for innovation and growth.
This conference has undoubtedly set the stage for continued collaboration and shared growth between Azerbaijan and Hungary, promising exciting prospects for both nations in the realms of innovation and beyond.