President Aliyev discusses new horizons of cooperation with Guinea-Bissau delegation in Baku Energy and education in focus

On December 2, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev hosted a delegation from Guinea-Bissau led by Carlos Pinto Pereira, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Communities. 

The visit, which underscores the strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations, included discussions on economic collaboration, education, and governance, Caliber.Az reports, citing Azertag.

The delegation also included Viriato Cassamá, Guinea-Bissau’s Minister of Environment.

President Aliyev warmly recalled his productive meeting with Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, expressing satisfaction with the progress in defining avenues of cooperation. He highlighted the ministerial-level delegation’s visit as a testament to the growing ties between Azerbaijan and Guinea-Bissau.

Carlos Pinto Pereira, conveying greetings from his President, affirmed that the visit aims to deepen relations, particularly in trade, investment, and political collaboration.

A key focus of the meeting was cooperation in education. President Aliyev emphasized Azerbaijan’s commitment to providing scholarships for Guinea-Bissau students in specialized fields such as engineering, petroleum engineering, and other fields, at its higher education institutions. It was noted with pride that many Guinea-Bissau alumni of Azerbaijani institutions, dating back to the Soviet era, now hold significant roles in their country's government.

Additionally, it was highlighted that several ministers and other senior officials in today's delegation had also studied in Azerbaijan in the past.

The meeting delved into oil and mining sector collaboration, with discussions on Azerbaijan sharing its expertise in geological exploration. Guinea-Bissau also expressed interest in adopting Azerbaijan's "ASAN Xidmet" model—an innovative one-stop government service praised globally. President Aliyev affirmed Azerbaijan's readiness to share its successful practices with its African partner.

The parties also discussed the establishment of a diplomatic consultation mechanism and pledged to enhance cooperation in international organizations. Plans for reciprocal visits to foster stronger ties were also set in motion.

By Khagan Isayev