Enhancing Sino-Azerbaijani relations for sustainable growth
Baku's strategic engagement with Beijing

ANALYTICS  27 March 2024 - 09:01

This analysis distills key points from the interview of Azerbaijan's top foreign policy aide Hikmat Hajiyev with the Chinese Global Times into specific statements, aimed at elucidating Baku's overarching philosophy regarding its China policy and the recent strengthening of ties with Beijing.

Executive summary

As Azerbaijan enters a new era under President Ilham Aliyev's leadership, the nation's diplomatic strategies, particularly with China, are gaining prominence. Assistant to the Azerbaijani President for Foreign Policy Affairs Hikmat Hajiyev elucidated on Azerbaijan's commitment to bolstering ties with China, emphasizing mutual benefits across various sectors.

This analysis, drawing from Hikmat Hajiyev's aforementioned interview with GT, thoroughly examines the multifaceted relationship between Azerbaijan and China, while also uncovering opportunities for enhanced collaboration, notably in the realms of economic diversification, green growth initiatives, and climate change mitigation endeavors.

Introduction

The recent inauguration of President Ilham Aliyev for a fifth term signals a pivotal juncture in Azerbaijan's foreign policy landscape. Against this backdrop, Hikmat Hajiyev's insights provide invaluable perspectives on Azerbaijan's aspirations for enhancing cooperation with China and shed light on the evolving dynamics of Sino-Azerbaijani relations and their implications for both nations' strategic interests.

Exploring Sino-Azerbaijani relations

Historical context and policy priorities: Azerbaijan views China as a strategic ally and has consistently prioritized strengthening bilateral ties. Hajiyev underscored Azerbaijan's unwavering support for China's one-China policy, affirming mutual respect and cooperation based on historical affinities and shared values. President Aliyev's new agenda emphasizes sustained economic growth, territorial integrity, and sovereignty, laying the groundwork for deeper engagement with China.

Opportunities for economic collaboration: While political relations between Azerbaijan and China are robust, the untapped potential exists in economic realms. Hajiyev highlighted Azerbaijan's eagerness to attract more Chinese investments, particularly in sectors driving economic diversification and green growth. Chinese companies' involvement in Azerbaijan's digital transformation and renewable energy sectors is instrumental in realizing Azerbaijan's development goals.

Strategic alignment in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): Azerbaijan perceives alignment with China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as pivotal for enhancing connectivity and trade linkages. The Middle Corridor, traversing Azerbaijan's strategic geographic position, holds immense potential for bolstering Eurasian trade routes. Azerbaijan's active participation in the BRI underscores its commitment to fostering regional integration and economic development.

Azerbaijan's hosting of COP29

Against the backdrop of Azerbaijan hosting COP29, Hajiyev elucidated the nation's priorities and goals for the conference. Azerbaijan aims to foster global solidarity and consensus on climate action, bridging divides between the Global North and Global South. Hajiyev emphasized inclusivity and representation of vulnerable communities in COP29 discussions, underscoring Azerbaijan's commitment to equitable climate governance.

Prospects for Sino-Azerbaijani cooperation on climate change

Hajiyev outlined Azerbaijan's aspirations for collaboration with China on climate change initiatives, leveraging China's expertise in green technology and sustainable development. Azerbaijan seeks to align its green transition agenda with China's Global Development Initiative (GDI), fostering dialogue and solidarity among developing nations. Sino-Azerbaijani collaboration holds immense potential in advancing climate resilience and achieving shared environmental objectives.

Navigating perceptions of Chinese investments

Hajiyev rebuffed unfounded security concerns surrounding Chinese investments, affirming Azerbaijan's confidence in Chinese technologies and commitment to fair competition. Azerbaijan's positive experiences with Huawei exemplify the transformative impact of Chinese investments in driving digital transformation and economic progress.

Conclusion

As Azerbaijan embarks on a new trajectory of development, fostering a strategic partnership with China emerges as a cornerstone of its foreign policy agenda. Hikmat Hajiyev's insights underscore the imperative of deeper collaboration between Azerbaijan and China across diverse domains, from economic diversification to climate change mitigation. By harnessing the synergies between their respective development visions, Azerbaijan and China stand poised to chart a path towards sustainable growth and shared prosperity.

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