Press Statement: Azerbaijan and Czech Republic Reaffirm Strategic Partnership, Expand Cooperation Across Energy, Trade and Defense

Gabala, The Gulf Observer: President Ilham Aliyev and Andrej Babiš delivered joint press statements following high-level talks in Gabala, reaffirming the strength of bilateral relations and outlining new avenues for cooperation across key sectors.

President Aliyev warmly welcomed Prime Minister Babiš and his delegation, noting that the visit reflects the dynamic development of ties between Azerbaijan and the Czech Republic. He recalled their previous meeting in Davos and emphasized the growing political dialogue and mutual understanding on regional, bilateral, and global issues.

The Azerbaijani President highlighted significant progress in economic cooperation, with bilateral trade exceeding $800 million. However, he stressed the need to diversify trade beyond oil exports to achieve a more balanced structure. He expressed optimism that ongoing discussions and the accompanying business forum, attended by a large Czech business delegation, would facilitate new partnerships and investment opportunities.

Energy cooperation was underscored as a cornerstone of bilateral relations. President Aliyev noted that Azerbaijan remains a reliable energy supplier to Europe, exporting oil and natural gas to numerous countries, including members of the European Union. He added that both sides had reached a shared understanding on expanding long-term cooperation in the energy sector.

The President also emphasized growing collaboration in the defense industry, including ongoing discussions on joint production projects. He reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities through both domestic production and international partnerships.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Babiš described Azerbaijan as a “strategic partner” and praised the strong foundation of friendship underpinning bilateral relations. He highlighted Azerbaijan’s key role in Europe’s energy security, noting that approximately 42 percent of the Czech Republic’s oil imports originate from Azerbaijan.

The Czech Prime Minister expressed interest in expanding cooperation in natural gas supplies, particularly through the involvement of ČEZ, one of the country’s largest energy firms, which is seeking long-term agreements with Azerbaijan.

Babiš also emphasized the participation of around 50 Czech companies in the delegation, signaling strong business interest in Azerbaijan. He pointed to potential cooperation in transport infrastructure, including prospective contracts with Baku Metro, and highlighted opportunities for joint ventures, technology transfer, and collaboration in science and research.

The Prime Minister further outlined defense industry cooperation, referencing Czech firms such as Aero Vodochody and Colt, and their existing and potential contributions to Azerbaijan’s defense sector.

Both leaders also discussed the reactivation of the intergovernmental commission to advance bilateral cooperation across sectors, with senior officials from both sides expected to lead its activities.

Concluding the talks, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening strategic ties and enhancing economic collaboration, expressing confidence in the promising prospects for Azerbaijan–Czech Republic relations.