Azerbaijan, Israel discuss strengthening bilateral ties, peace initiatives

Speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament Sahiba Gafarova met with Ronen Krausz, the newly appointed Ambassador of Israel to Azerbaijan, on September 11 to discuss ways to deepen cooperation and strengthen bilateral relations, the parliamentary press service said.

During the meeting, Gafarova congratulated Krausz on his appointment and wished him success in his diplomatic mission. The discussions focused on the steady expansion of partnership between Azerbaijan and Israel, with particular attention to broadening ties across both traditional areas and emerging sectors, Caliber.Az reports via local media. 

Emphasising the importance of people-to-people contacts, Gafarova highlighted Azerbaijan’s long-standing multicultural and tolerant environment, which has allowed Jewish communities to live in peace and mutual understanding. She also noted the Azerbaijani community in Israel, including Jewish-origin compatriots, as a vital link in enhancing bilateral relations.

The role of parliaments in fostering cooperation was also underscored. Gafarova recalled her engagement earlier this year with Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana in Uzbekistan, stressing the significance of legislative connections, mutual delegations, and the work of bilateral friendship groups.

The talks touched on President Ilham Aliyev’s recent working visit to the United States at the invitation of President Donald Trump, during which key agreements were reached and documents signed. Gafarova highlighted the importance of implementing the Washington accords and expressed optimism about the forthcoming ratification of a peace treaty.

The meeting concluded with an exchange of views on other issues of mutual interest, reinforcing the commitment of both nations to continue strengthening their partnership across multiple spheres.

By Sabina Mammadli