Azerbaijan and Latvia Strengthen Strategic Ties with Focus on Trade, Energy and Connectivity

Baku, The Gulf Observer: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev held an expanded meeting with President of the Republic of Latvia Edgars Rinkēvičs on April 22, underscoring growing bilateral cooperation and shared strategic interests.

Welcoming the Latvian delegation, President Aliyev highlighted the positive momentum in bilateral relations, noting that prior engagements—including a successful session of the intergovernmental commission—had laid a strong foundation for the visit. He expressed confidence that the ongoing business forum would further strengthen economic cooperation.

Aliyev emphasized the strong political ties between the two countries and called for greater focus on practical aspects of cooperation, including trade, mutual investments, energy, connectivity, and digitalization—areas that Azerbaijan is actively promoting as part of its development strategy.

The Azerbaijani leader also noted that discussions covered regional political developments, adding that both sides would continue consultations at the delegation level to advance key priorities of their bilateral partnership.

President Rinkēvičs thanked his Azerbaijani counterpart for the invitation and warm hospitality, describing the progress and transformation of Baku as “impressive” since his last visit in 2017. He congratulated Azerbaijan on its economic and political development and acknowledged efforts to resolve longstanding issues.

Reaffirming Latvia’s position, Rinkēvičs described Azerbaijan as a strategic partner and friend, highlighting the importance of deepening both political and economic cooperation. He noted the strong interest among Latvian officials and business representatives in expanding engagement, as reflected in the size and composition of the visiting delegation.

The Latvian president also commended the work of the intergovernmental commission, emphasizing its role in facilitating practical cooperation and advancing bilateral ties.

The meeting reflects a shared commitment by both countries to broaden collaboration across key sectors and address regional and global challenges through strengthened partnership.