Azerbaijan, EU set to deepen ties on energy, climate, regional security PHOTO

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov has met with the Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission to discuss the ongoing partnership between Azerbaijan and the EU, as well as opportunities for expanding bilateral cooperation in various sectors.

During the one-on-one and expanded meetings, the sides focused on key areas such as energy security, transport, climate change, and regional security, Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs told Caliber.Az.

They also addressed the process of normalizing relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia in the post-conflict period.

Bayramov and Kallas exchanged views on enhancing Azerbaijan-EU relations, particularly through high-level visits and initiatives aimed at mutual benefit. Both sides underscored the importance of continuing negotiations on the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, considering the evolving political and economic realities in the region.

“Azerbaijan has always advocated for establishing equal relations with EU member states based on mutual respect for each other’s legitimate interests and the current regional dynamics,” FM Bayramov stated.

The discussions also highlighted Azerbaijan’s ongoing reconstruction efforts in the territories liberated following the conflict, the ongoing fight against landmines, and the process of returning internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their homes.

Bayramov also briefed Kallas on the peace talks with Armenia, particularly addressing the challenges posed by territorial claims in the Armenian Constitution and the dissolution of structures like the Minsk Group, which has lost relevance in the current diplomatic landscape.

The meeting further emphasized Azerbaijan’s pivotal role in ensuring Europe’s energy security. The parties acknowledged the importance of agreements reached during Azerbaijan’s chairmanship of COP29, with particular attention given to the country’s commitment to combating climate change. Cooperation in the field of green energy was also a key topic, with both sides recognizing the potential for significant collaboration in this area.

As the discussions concluded, Bayramov and Kallas reiterated their mutual commitment to strengthening Azerbaijan’s ties with the European Union, with a focus on regional stability, economic cooperation, and sustainable development.

By Vafa Guliyeva