China-Azerbaijan relations reach most elevated level in history, says envoy

Newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to Azerbaijan Lu Mei has expressed her pride in witnessing a pivotal moment in the diplomatic relationship between the two nations.

She made these remarks during a recent press briefing, Caliber.Az reports.

The ambassador described the ongoing exchange of views between the heads of state as a significant historical development, marking a new chapter in the elevation of China-Azerbaijan relations.

Lu emphasised that the diplomatic efforts of the two national leaders serve as a guiding force for the advancement of bilateral relations.

She pointed out that the cooperation between China and Azerbaijan has been consistently strengthened under the strategic leadership of Presidents Xi Jinping and Ilham Aliyev. 

"President Ilham Aliyev has visited China seven times, and President Xi Jinping has met with President Aliyev on more than ten occasions," Lu noted. "This frequent exchange has not only forged strong working relationships but also deepened the personal friendship between the two leaders." 

The ambassador noted that these interactions have played a crucial role in bringing the relationship between the two countries to an unprecedented high.

"Under the leadership of our heads of state, China-Azerbaijan relations have reached the most elevated level in history, setting an example of mutual respect and collaborative efforts between both large and smaller nations," the ambassador added. 

Lu also reiterated China’s unwavering commitment to supporting Azerbaijan in defending its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.

“China will continue firmly supporting Azerbaijan in defending its core interests,” the ambassador stated, emphasising her country's dedication to ensuring Azerbaijan’s stability on the global stage.

The ambassador further highlighted Azerbaijan’s strong support for China's national reunification efforts, noting that President Aliyev reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s backing during his visit to China.

She also acknowledged Azerbaijan’s active participation in China’s global initiatives, including the Global Community of Shared Future, which aims to foster peace, stability, and prosperity worldwide. She quoted President Xi, who emphasised the long-standing tradition of mutual support between the two nations on issues of core interest.

“This firm mutual support is a crucial component of the strategic partnership between China and Azerbaijan,” she remarked.

In her address, the ambassador stressed the importance of both nations fully implementing the consensus reached by their heads of state, particularly in light of the current complex international situation. 

“It is vital that we enhance mutual support and take more practical steps to safeguard the international system, centred around the United Nations, and defend the international order based on international law,” she stated.

On April 23, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev undertook a state visit to China, during which both nations signed a series of official documents and engaged in high-level discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. China welcomed the recent signing of a mutual visa exemption agreement with Azerbaijan, highlighting the move as a milestone in the deepening of bilateral relations. The agreement was formalised during the state visit of President Aliyev to Beijing, and is set to bolster diplomatic, cultural, and economic exchanges between the two countries.

By Naila Huseynova