First political consultations in Baku sets stage for expanded Azerbaijan-Canada cooperation PHOTO  

On June 10, Azerbaijan and Canada held their inaugural political consultations in Baku, where officials discussed bolstering political ties and emphasised the importance of reciprocal visits and international engagement to foster sustained political dialogue.

The Azerbaijani delegation was led by Esmira Jafarova, Head of the Americas Department at the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, while the Canadian side was headed by Andreas Weichert, Executive Director of the East Europe and Eurasia Division of Canada's Foreign Ministry, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry told Caliber.Az.

Bottom of Form Both sides underscored the need to avoid actions and approaches that could create tension in bilateral relations. Discussions also focused on economic cooperation, exploring avenues to boost bilateral trade and implement joint projects in energy, transport, high technologies, and other sectors. Special attention was given to the successful collaboration with Canada in preparation for COP29. Azerbaijan's strategic role in significant energy, transport, and logistics projects was highly commended.

Both parties noted that cooperation in education, culture, and tourism would substantially strengthen bilateral ties. The Canadian delegation received a detailed briefing on the current post-conflict situation in the region, including the normalisation process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The discussion also covered factors hindering this process, steps Azerbaijan is taking to ensure lasting peace, the ongoing mine threat, and the large-scale reconstruction efforts in the liberated territories. The consultations concluded with an exchange of views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

By Naila Huseynova