Azerbaijan, UK Advance New Strategic Partnership, Eye Expanded Cooperation

Baku, The Gulf Observer: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on Tuesday received newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to Azerbaijan Duncan Norman, who presented his credentials to the head of state.

Speaking in Azerbaijani at the outset of the meeting, Ambassador Duncan Norman expressed his honour at opening a new chapter in relations between Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom, recalling his first visit to Azerbaijan 27 years ago and praising the country’s development and potential.

The ambassador said work was underway on a new strategic partnership between the two countries, which he said would build on existing achievements through deeper cooperation, enhanced security and innovation in areas of shared priorities.

He expressed the UK’s interest in developing a dynamic partnership with Azerbaijan in renewable energy, defence and aviation, while also emphasizing the importance of educational cooperation and stronger links between young people.

Ambassador Norman noted that the British government appreciated President Ilham Aliyev’s efforts toward establishing peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia and supported the progress achieved in this regard.

He also recalled that the United Kingdom was the first international partner to support Azerbaijan’s demining efforts.

President Ilham Aliyev welcomed the ambassador and wished him success during his diplomatic mission in Azerbaijan, also commending him for addressing the meeting in Azerbaijani.

The Azerbaijani president said the issues discussed were important not only for bilateral relations but also for regional development and cooperation.

President Aliyev expressed appreciation to the UK government for its support for demining activities and emphasized Azerbaijan’s need for enhanced international cooperation in this field.

Recalling that Azerbaijan-UK cooperation began in the energy sector three decades ago, President Aliyev highlighted significant opportunities for expanding partnership in renewable energy. He noted that bp had constructed the first solar power plant in Azerbaijan’s liberated territories.

The president observed that during the 35 years since gaining independence, Azerbaijan had experienced only one year of peace, describing the current developments as representing a major transformation for the region.

He emphasized that security would remain a priority on Azerbaijan’s national agenda in view of the prevailing regional situation.

President Aliyev also highlighted Azerbaijan’s favourable investment climate and noted the strong mutual interest of Azerbaijani and British companies in expanding economic cooperation.

The president wished Ambassador Duncan Norman success in his diplomatic activities and expressed confidence in the further development of Azerbaijan-UK relations.