Azerbaijan, Oman solidify parliamentary diplomacy, explore boosting bilateral cooperation

Speaker of the Milli Majlis (Parliament) of Azerbaijan, Sahiba Gafarova, and Speaker of the Consultative Council of the Sultanate of Oman, Khalid Hilal Al Maawali, have discussed the ways to expand bilateral cooperation between the two countries as they met in Baku.

Khalid Hilal Al Maawali arrived in Azerbaijan to participate in the 15th plenary session of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA), Caliber.Az reports via local media.

The sides pointed out the upcoming plenary session and its potential to address important issues. The APA was described as a crucial platform for parliamentary diplomacy, uniting legislative bodies across Asia. They emphasized that such platforms foster valuable dialogue and collaboration between participating countries.

The high level of political ties and dialogue between Azerbaijan and Oman was acknowledged at the meeting.  The historical, religious, and cultural connections between the two nations were noted as a strong foundation for the continued development of bilateral relations. The parties also identified various areas where cooperation between the two countries could be expanded, particularly in economic, trade, and other sectors.

Speaker Gafarova emphasized the positive cooperation and mutual support between Azerbaijan and Oman within key international organizations, such as the United Nations, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). The discussion also covered the progress made in the establishment of the Non-Aligned Movement Parliamentary Network, initiated by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. Gafarova acknowledged the work done to strengthen the institutional framework of the organization since its founding conference under Azerbaijan's chairmanship.

For his part, Khalid Hilal Al Maawali reaffirmed Oman’s support for Azerbaijan within the Parliamentary Network of the Non-Aligned Movement and other international organizations. He expressed gratitude for the invitation to participate in the event and for the warm hospitality extended to him. Al Maawali highlighted that Oman had become a full member of the APA during Azerbaijan's presidency and affirmed confidence that the 15th Plenary Session in Baku would contribute significantly to the future activities of the organization.

The meeting also underscored the significant strengthening of parliamentary ties between Azerbaijan and Oman in recent years. Mutual visits and contacts have played an important role in fostering these strengthened relations.

By Vafa Guliyeva