Official Speeches and Remarks by Ambassador Anne E. Derse

National Conference on Building a Knowledge-based Economy in Azerbaijan
Ambassador Derse's Opening Remarks

November 6, 2006 at 10:00am

Presidium of Academy of Sciences of the Azerbaijan Republic

Ladies and Gentlemen, Minister Mardanov, Academician Kerimov, Deputy Minister Jabbarov, Head of Humanitarian Policy Department of President's Administration Abdullazade and distinguished guests, good morning. I'm happy to have the honor to address you this morning as you prepare to discuss best practices for supporting basic research, higher education, and science and industry.

Azerbaijan has the potential to achieve its goal: to develop as a modern, market-oriented democracy, and a regional powerhouse. But to reach that goal, Azerbaijan must cultivate its "human capital" and create conditions for growth in the non-energy sector industries.

Key to Azerbaijan's future success is its dynamic, talented, and hardworking people. President Aliyev recognized this and remarked recently that "Financial revenues should be transformed into human capital." To ensure its future prosperity, Azerbaijan must develop world-class schools, universities, and opportunities for scientific research and development.

As Azerbaijan's friend and partner, we will help. With financial support from the U.S. government, the U.S. Civilian Research and Development Fund has partnered with the Azerbaijan National Science Foundation to help build scientific capacity. To see these efforts grow, CRDF has proposed a $1 million dollar bilateral grant program with $500,000 of CRDF funds matched by the Government of Azerbaijan. President Aliyev has indicated his support and we hope the program will be finalized soon.

Azerbaijan must also look to attract investment and unleash Azerbaijan's entrepreneurial spirit. The goal now, as President Aliyev has said repeatedly, must be to diversify and expand Azerbaijan's non-energy sectors. Azerbaijan's national science, education, and research policies will play key roles to help Azerbaijan grow as a regional hub in areas like information technology, telecommunications, and science-based industries.
The U.S. can help. With the right investment climate, American businesses will come to Azerbaijan and can bring investment, new technologies and skills training.

A bright and prosperous future is within Azerbaijan's grasp. A future as a regional leader in science and innovation, with a well-educated, productive workforce equipped to compete in a diversified economy.
On this occasion, I would like to recognize the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, the Ministry of Education, the Azerbaijan National Science Foundation, and the U.S. Civilian Research and Development Foundation for organizing this important conference. The United States remains committed to supporting Azerbaijan's efforts to address the challenges that will ensure a bright and prosperous future for all Azerbaijanis.