President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has Monday presided over a Cabinet`s meeting dealing with the outcomes of socio-economic development in 2009, AzerTAj state news agency reported.
The President made opening remarks in the meeting, saying Azerbaijan managed to survive the global financial crisis with "minimal losses."
The Head of State noted serious social and economic reforms underway in Azerbaijan create opportunities for comprehensive development in the country. "Our country protected its economic interests in 2009, and improved social welfare of the population."
He underlined according to the results of 2009, Azerbaijan was the most rapidly developing country.
The President pointed out, in 2009, gross domestic product (GDP) in the country increased by 9, 3 percent, describing this as a "historical accomplishment".
The Head of State noted industrial production grew 8. 6 percent, while the agricultural sector saw 3, 5 percent increase. He added the inflation level made up 1, 5 percent.
President Ilham Aliyev pointed out $9. 2 billion investments were made in Azerbaijan, 7, 3 billion of which was an internal one.
The Head of State noted huge infrastructure projects were carried out in the country. He stressed 74 thousand jobs were created in Azerbaijan, while the poverty level decreased to 11 percent. He said the county`s currency reserves increased to reach $ 20, 4 billions.
According to the President, 64 schools and 59 healthcare facilities were constructed in the country in 2009.
The Head of State also touched upon the country`s foreign policy, underlining important steps have been taken in this direction. "The number of our friends and strategic partners increases," the President added.
On the Armenia-Azerbaijan, Nagorno Karabakh conflict, President Ilham Aliyev said the principle of territorial integrity was a priority in the issue.
Finance Minister Samir Sharifov, Chairman of the Central Bank`s Board Elman Rustamov, Minister of Communication and Information Technology Ali Abbasov, Chairman of the State Social Protection Fund Salim Muslumov reported on the last year`s socio-economic measures in the country.
President Ilham Aliyev made closing remarks, saying Azerbaijan was relying on its resources, and there is a powerful will to strengthen the country even more and to address the outstanding tasks.
The Head of State underscored Azerbaijan was an economy that has completed its transition into a liberal, sustainable and self-sufficient one.
President Ilham Aliyev said implementation of social programs and infrastructure projects will continue in 2010.