Serbian leader lauds Azerbaijan’s development, expands cooperation plans

Azerbaijan is emerging as an increasingly significant political force, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic remarked during a conversation with reporters.

He emphasized that the ongoing negotiations between Baku and Belgrade regarding cooperation in the energy sector, particularly the construction of a gas power plant, hold immense importance for Serbia, Caliber.Az reports citing local media.

"The gas corridor, the interconnector between Bulgaria and Serbia for gas collection and subsequent power generation is crucial for us. Additionally, Russia's logistical ties with Iran through Azerbaijan, and its connections with other countries, are highly beneficial for Serbia," Vucic stated.

He also highlighted the significance of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, particularly the middle corridor linking Central Asian countries.

"This route is vital for us, and I want to tell my citizens and Serbian journalists that I am truly amazed by the progress I have witnessed here in Azerbaijan," the Serbian president said.

Vucic reiterated that Serbia is committed to further developing its cooperation with Azerbaijan.

He also addressed the absence of European countries at the COP29 climate conference, attributing it to political motives.

"I don’t care if they came or not. The most important thing is that we are here, and we will continue to attend in the future," Vucic declared.

He further criticized the West’s refusal to engage in resolving international conflicts, pointing out, "They could have held a thousand bilateral meetings and negotiations, but they didn’t come. This summit is incredibly important, especially when we need to stop major conflicts, like in Ukraine and the Middle East."

Upon his arrival at the conference, Vucic shared that he had discussed key issues related to climate change and the potential construction of a gas power plant in Serbia with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.

"I just met with President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan. I am deeply grateful to him for the invitation and the hospitality. We discussed crucial matters regarding COP and began talks on the construction of a gas power plant in Serbia. Both our countries can become shareholders in this project, which will take place in the southern Serbian town of Niš. If we succeed, it will be a significant milestone in our close cooperation," Vucic explained.

The Serbian president emphasized that this project is vital for his country, as Azerbaijan is already supplying gas to Serbia. "Thank you to our friends in Azerbaijan for their willingness to partner with us on this," he added.

Vucic also expressed hope that President Aliyev would be able to visit Serbia in January next year.

"We've managed to increase trade exchange by 30 times over the last year compared to five years ago, which is unprecedented. I truly feel at home here in Azerbaijan, in Baku, and I look forward to visiting your country again next summer," he said.

Discussing climate finance, Vucic noted the complexity of the issue, highlighting the need for substantial investments. He recalled that at COP in Glasgow, countries had promised significant annual funds for climate efforts, but those promises remain unfulfilled. "I hope we will be more effective this time and work together for the well-being of our peoples," he concluded.

By Tamilla Hasanova