Manila: President Ilham Aliyev expressed hope for an early end to the conflict in the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of ensuring lasting peace in the region once the fighting stops. Speaking during the open dialogue at the 4th Shusha Global Media Forum, Aliyev raised the question of what the region will look like after peace is achieved. According to Philippines News Agency, President Aliyev noted Azerbaijan's strategic position, surrounded by nations engaged in conflict. He emphasized that Azerbaijan's priority is to protect its own security while aiding in regional peace efforts. Located between Eastern Europe, Western Asia, and the Middle East, Azerbaijan is bounded by Russia, Iran, and Armenia. Aliyev stressed the necessity of peace beyond Azerbaijan's borders for true safety. Aliyev urged neighboring countries to act responsibly, cease hostilities swiftly, and work toward normalizing relations to prevent escalating the situation into a global conflict. He highlighted Pakistan's potential role in mediating the conflict between the United States and Iran, acknowledging the efforts of Pakistani leadership in previous ceasefire attempts. During a two-and-a-half-hour session with around 160 participants from 60 countries, Aliyev also praised the roles of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir in brokering earlier ceasefire efforts. He asserted that peace must be just, fair, and rooted in international law, rather than personal ambitions. The forum, themed "The Mission of the Media in Promoting Peace: Restoring Truth and Rebuilding Trust," served as a platform for these discussions.