Azerbaijan, US eye stronger ties through transport, energy initiatives PHOTO

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov held talks with US Congressman Abraham Hamadeh, focusing on the current state of and future prospects for Azerbaijan–United States relations, as well as regional and international developments.

The discussions covered a broad range of issues, including energy security, transport and communication links, and the post-conflict situation in the South Caucasus, Caliber.Az reports, citing Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry.

FM Bayramov highlighted the importance of the summit held in Washington last August, noting that the historic agreements reached during the event helped elevate bilateral relations to a new level. He emphasized that the Strategic Partnership Charter signed between Azerbaijan and the United States had created a solid foundation for expanding cooperation in key areas such as political dialogue, economic engagement, and energy security.

The foreign minister also pointed to the successful launch of the first Azerbaijan–US Economic Cooperation Dialogue, during which ten documents were signed covering trade, investment, energy, transportation, digital development, and other sectors.

A key topic of discussion was the implementation of the TRIPP project, which both sides described as important for strengthening regional transport and communication links and ensuring uninterrupted connectivity between mainland Azerbaijan and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.

During discussions on the future development of Azerbaijan–US relations, the need to remove barriers to bilateral cooperation was emphasized, in particular the full repeal of Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act, which was characterized as an outdated provision that no longer aligns with current geopolitical realities or the spirit of the Baku–Washington strategic partnership.

The minister also outlined Azerbaijan’s longstanding contribution to the energy security of Europe and the broader region, highlighting both conventional and renewable energy initiatives being pursued by the country. He noted that significant opportunities remain for expanding cooperation with the United States in the energy sector.

The meeting additionally addressed the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. FM Bayramov briefed the US lawmaker on the progress of ongoing normalization efforts, as well as reconstruction and redevelopment projects underway in territories liberated from occupation.

By Vafa Guliyeva