President Ilham Aliyev, U.S. Vice President JD Vance Hold Expanded Talks in Baku, Set to Sign Strategic Partnership Agreement
Baku, The Gulf Observer: Ilham Aliyev held an expanded meeting with JD Vance, Vice President of the United States, in Baku on February 10, underscoring the deepening of bilateral relations and the formal elevation of ties to a Strategic Partnership level.
Welcoming the U.S. delegation, President Ilham Aliyev described the visit as a significant milestone in Azerbaijan–United States relations, noting that recent months had marked an “absolutely fantastic” period for the partnership.
The Azerbaijani leader highlighted his two meetings with Donald Trump over the past six months, as well as Vice President Vance’s official visit to Azerbaijan, as clear demonstrations of the mutual will to strengthen cooperation. He stated that the partnership would now be formally elevated, reflecting the high level of interaction between the two countries’ teams.
President Aliyev also emphasized the importance of continued dialogue on both bilateral issues and regional developments, expressing confidence that the visit would further reinforce strong cooperation between Baku and Washington.
Strategic Partnership and Regional Peace
Vice President JD Vance conveyed President Trump’s greetings and appreciation, describing the relationship between the two administrations as one built on partnership and friendship. He welcomed the forthcoming signing of a Strategic Partnership Agreement, expressing optimism about expanding cooperation in the years ahead.
The U.S. Vice President commended President Aliyev’s leadership in advancing the peace agenda in the South Caucasus and acknowledged the progress achieved in the Azerbaijan–Armenia peace process.
In turn, President Ilham Aliyev highlighted the special role played by President Trump in supporting efforts toward lasting peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
Expanding Cooperation in Key Sectors
During the talks, the sides exchanged views on the development of the TRIPP transport corridor and discussed expanding cooperation in politics, trade, the economy, high technologies, artificial intelligence, and the establishment of data centers.
Vice President Vance also praised Azerbaijan’s tolerant social environment, noting that representatives of different religions coexist peacefully in the country.
The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of both nations to broaden collaboration across strategic sectors and strengthen their partnership at a higher institutional level.
