Azerbaijan and Bulgaria Strengthen Strategic Partnership Through Urban Planning Cooperation and ‘Shusha’ Park Agreement
Sofia, The Gulf Observer: A delegation led by Anar Guliyev, Chairman of the State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture of Azerbaijan, is undertaking a working visit to Bulgaria aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in urban development and infrastructure planning.
On February 11, Chairman Guliyev held talks in Sofia with Bulgaria’s Minister of Regional Development and Public Works, Ivan Ivanov. The meeting focused on exploring opportunities for collaboration in urban and territorial planning, infrastructure development, and architectural design.
Guliyev underscored that the friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Bulgaria continue to advance at the level of strategic partnership. He emphasized the importance of expanding the institute of twinned cities and implementing joint projects to further consolidate bilateral ties.
Minister Ivanov expressed Bulgaria’s interest in deepening relations with Azerbaijan, highlighting the significance of joint initiatives aimed at sustainable urban development and the implementation of modern infrastructure projects.
As part of the visit, Chairman Guliyev also met with Bulgaria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Georg Georgiev. Discussions centered on the prospects of Azerbaijan–Bulgaria relations across various sectors, including regional cooperation, as well as the expansion of cultural and humanitarian engagement.
During the visit, an agreement on cooperation concerning the establishment and reconstruction of the “Shusha” Park in the city of Veliko Tarnovo was signed between the Government of Azerbaijan, the Government of Bulgaria, and the Municipality of Veliko Tarnovo.
The “Shusha” Park project was described as a significant initiative that will contribute to deepening cultural and diplomatic relations between the two countries. The agreement establishes a legal framework for cooperation and facilitates the implementation of the project, while also promoting broader cultural and humanitarian ties.
In bilateral meetings, Guliyev also briefed Bulgarian officials on the format and organizational aspects of the 13th session of the UN World Urban Forum, scheduled to be held in Baku in May this year. He expressed hope for strong participation from the Bulgarian side, reaffirming Azerbaijan’s commitment to fostering international dialogue on sustainable urban development.
