Paneuropean Union: Azerbaijan, Spain have strong potential to expand economic ties

There is considerable potential for Azerbaijan and Spain to strengthen their trade and economic relations, according to Carlos Uriarte Sánchez, Secretary-General of Paneuropa Spain.

Uriarte highlighted agriculture and water management as key sectors where bilateral cooperation could be significantly deepened, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

He also underlined the growing opportunities for partnership in the field of renewable energy:
“Spain is a leader in this area. Azerbaijan can benefit from our expertise, technologies, and equipment — from solar panels to wind turbines. At the same time, we could import electricity, gas, and fuel from Azerbaijan.”

Uriarte pointed out that Azerbaijan possesses promising sectors, such as olive oil, that remain largely unknown abroad, highlighting that they are also worth promoting.

While noting certain cultural and traditional similarities between the two nations, he stressed that the people of Spain and Azerbaijan still do not know each other well enough:
“This is something we definitely need to improve,” he concluded.

To recall, the Paneuropean Union, established in 1923 by Richard von Coudenhove-Kalergi, is the oldest movement dedicated to European unification. Coudenhove-Kalergi's vision, articulated in his manifesto "Paneuropa," advocated for a politically and economically integrated Europe to ensure peace and stability.

The inaugural Congress convened in Vienna in 1926, electing him as president. The Union faced suppression under Nazi Germany but re-emerged post-World War II, gaining support from figures like Winston Churchill. Otto von Habsburg succeeded Coudenhove-Kalergi in 1973, emphasizing the liberation of Central and Eastern Europe from communist regimes.

The goal of the Paneuropean Union (PEU) is to promote the political and economic integration of Europe to ensure lasting peace, stability, and prosperity. Founded by Richard von Coudenhove-Kalergi, the organization advocates for a united Europe that transcends national boundaries, fostering cooperation among European nations.

Its ultimate vision is to establish a Pan-European federation, where the integration of countries, both within the European Union and beyond, will contribute to a peaceful and democratic Europe. The PEU also upholds values of humanism and Christianity, seeking to promote a Europe that balances cultural diversity with unity.

Through this integration, the Paneuropean Union aims to prevent conflicts, enhance mutual understanding, and safeguard the security of the continent. Pavo Barišić is the fourth President of the Pan-European Union.

By Aghakazim Guliyev