President Ilham Aliyev Receives EU High Representative Kaja Kallas in Baku
Baku, The Gulf Observer: On May 5, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received a high-level European Union delegation led by Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission.
The meeting served to reinforce the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and the European Union, building upon the productive discussions initiated during Kallas’ 2025 visit to the country.
Strengthening Strategic Partnership
During the audience, Kaja Kallas conveyed greetings from European Council President António Costa. She emphasized that the joint statement previously issued by President Aliyev and President Costa underscores the strategic nature of their relationship, reaffirming Azerbaijan’s status as an essential partner for the EU.
President Aliyev highlighted several pillars of ongoing and future cooperation:
- Energy Security: The President reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s role as a reliable energy provider, noting that Azerbaijani natural gas has recently begun reaching Germany and Austria.
- Trade & Connectivity: The EU remains Azerbaijan’s primary trading partner. Discussions also focused on the TRIPP project, which is expected to create significant opportunities for regional connectivity.
- Emerging Sectors: Both parties identified digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy as key areas for expanded collaboration.
Progress in Regional Peace and Security
The meeting addressed the current Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process. President Aliyev detailed several unilateral steps taken by Azerbaijan to advance the peace agenda and foster economic ties, including:
- Transit Facilitation: The unilateral lifting of restrictions on transit cargo destined for Armenia.
- Diplomatic Milestones: The President’s participation via video link in the 8th European Political Community Summit held in Yerevan was hailed as a historic development.
Furthermore, the European Union’s ongoing support for Azerbaijan’s demining efforts was commended during the discussions.
