Smart cities and green energy: how Azerbaijan is rebuilding liberated territories Editor's note: Aysel Mammadzada is an Azerbaijan-based journalist. The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of News.Az. The Great Return programme represents one of the most ambitious national reconstruction and resettlement efforts in modern history. It is Azerbaijan’s large-scale initiative to rebuild and repopulate the territories of Karabakh and East Zangezur, which were liberated after nearly three decades of occupation. Beyond physical reconstruction, the programme symbolises the restoration of cultural heritage, the revival of economic life, and the return of displaced families to their ancestral lands. It is not only a national project but also a long-term vision aimed at creating a modern, sustainable, and technologically advanced region, News.Az reports. At its core, the Great Return is based on a comprehensive state strategy that combines infrastructure development, security, environmental restoration, economic revitalisation, and social reintegration. The programme is being implemented in carefully planned phases to ensure that resettlement takes place safely and sustainably. RECOMMENDED STORIES - Azerbaijan, Slovakia discuss expanding strategic partnership in high-level meeting - PHOTOS - Beijing becomes centre of global diplomacy as China hosts US, Tajik and Brunei leaders - Indian Ambassador visits Ayurveda Centre in Azerbaijan, discusses promotion of traditional wellness - “Eurovision 2026” song contest kicks off in Vienna Before any large-scale return could begin, one of the most critical challenges had to be addressed: landmine contamination. Vast areas of the liberated territories were heavily mined, posing serious risks to human life and reconstruction efforts. As a result, humanitarian demining became the first and most urgent priority. The Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA), together with international partners, has been actively involved in clearing thousands of hectares of land. Advanced technologies such as drone-based