UAE and Azerbaijan Strengthen Economic Cooperation During High-Level Meetings in Baku
Baku, The Gulf Observer: H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, during the UAE delegation’s visit to Azerbaijan, where both sides discussed expanding economic and investment partnerships across key strategic sectors.
The discussions focused on opportunities for collaboration between private-sector entities in advanced technology, digital transformation, energy, natural resources, and innovation. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening existing partnerships and leveraging the significant potential of both countries to advance new projects that promote economic growth and support sustainable development goals.
Members of the UAE delegation attending the meeting included Syed Basar Shueb, CEO and Managing Director of IHC; Ali Al Rashdi, CEO of International Resources Holding (IRH); Ajay Bhatia, CEO of Sirius International Holding; and Fouad Darwish, CEO and Managing Director of Palms Sports.
The meeting formed part of a series of engagements between the UAE delegation and various Azerbaijani institutions aimed at enhancing economic cooperation and building long-term strategic partnerships.
As part of the visit, International Resources Holding (IRH) held discussions with Azerbaijani counterparts to explore cooperation in mining projects, including the introduction of advanced exploration technologies and sustainable practices to support the growth of Azerbaijan’s natural resources sector.
Sirius International Holding also met with multiple Azerbaijani entities to identify opportunities for collaboration in digital transformation within the electricity and water sectors, including smart grid infrastructure to further advance Azerbaijan’s energy transition. The company reiterated its strong partnership through the US$480 million smart gas network project implemented by its subsidiary, Esyasoft, in cooperation with SOCAR, involving AI-enabled grid management, smart meters, and advanced digital systems.
Additionally, Palms Sports explored avenues to deepen cooperation in the sports sector with relevant institutions in Azerbaijan. As the name bearer and official sponsor of Neftçi Football Club, the company continues to expand its presence in the country, supporting initiatives in football, self-defence sports, community programmes and athlete development as part of its global growth strategy.
