Strategic partnership & recent developments in Azerbaijani-Chinese relations Cementing bilateral commitment

The joint declaration between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the People's Republic of China, adopted on July 3 during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Astana, signifies a robust commitment to enhancing bilateral relations across various domains.

Foundations of the strategic partnership

The joint declaration of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the People’s Republic of China on establishing a strategic partnership underscores mutual respect, equality, trust, mutual support, mutual benefit, and cooperation as foundational principles. This approach fosters a balanced and equitable relationship, ensuring both nations prioritize their partnership independently of external pressures.

Azerbaijan's endorsement of the "One China" policy reaffirms its recognition of Taiwan as part of China, aligning with China's core territorial concerns. Conversely, China's support for Azerbaijan's peace agenda highlights its backing for Azerbaijan's sovereignty and territorial integrity. China resolutely supports the peace agenda proposed by Azerbaijan and considers counterproductive geopolitical intrigues aimed at maintaining confrontation. This mutual support strengthens political trust and solidarity, reinforcing each nation's stance on critical geopolitical issues.

Political & security cooperation

The declaration identifies terrorism, separatism, and extremism as significant threats, advocating for joint efforts to address these challenges. Collaborative counter-terrorism efforts enhance regional and global security, promoting stability and peace. This cooperation also signals a unified front against common threats, strengthening international alliances.

Both nations commit to maintaining close contact on crucial security issues, preventing hostile actions from their territories. This provision ensures proactive measures to safeguard national and regional security, fostering a secure environment for bilateral and multilateral engagements.

The declaration emphasizes the importance of interactions between political parties and public institutions in enhancing bilateral relations. Strengthening these ties facilitates knowledge exchange, policy alignment, and collaborative initiatives, deepening mutual understanding and cooperation.

Active exchanges between legislative bodies are highlighted as crucial for expanding and developing bilateral relations. Legislative collaboration promotes the creation of a supportive legal framework, enabling smoother implementation of bilateral agreements and fostering long-term cooperation.

China’s strategic Belt & Road project

The Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation is pivotal in strengthening trade, investment, and engineering interactions. This mechanism facilitates coordinated economic activities, promoting mutual growth and development across various sectors.

The declaration highlights cooperation in energy, green energy, transport infrastructure, digital economy, and other priority areas. Leveraging each nation's strengths and resources fosters economic diversification, innovation, and sustainable development, benefiting both economies.

Efforts to optimize trade structures and improve market access are emphasized, with active participation in international expos. Enhanced trade and market access boost economic exchanges, increase trade volumes, and create new business opportunities, strengthening economic ties.

The declaration promotes deeper cooperation within the BRI framework, accelerating multimodal transport agreements. Integration into the BRI enhances connectivity, facilitates trade routes, and promotes economic cooperation, aligning with both nations' strategic development goals.

Ensuring the safety and efficiency of transport corridors, particularly the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor (Middle Corridor), is emphasized. Safe and efficient transport corridors enhance regional connectivity, streamline logistics, and boost economic activities, benefiting both countries and the broader region.

Cultural & humanitarian cooperation

Promoting language education and academic exchanges, with the potential establishment of a higher education alliance. Educational cooperation fosters cultural understanding, enhances academic standards, and prepares future leaders, strengthening people-to-people ties.

Enhancing cultural ties through mutual cultural days and facilitating tourism by simplifying visa regimes for Chinese citizens. Cultural exchanges and tourism promote mutual appreciation of each other's heritage, boost tourism revenue, and strengthen bilateral relations.

Encouraging participation in international tourism fairs and exhibitions, promoting mutual travel and cultural exchange. Tourism development enhances cultural exchanges, boosts economic growth, and fosters mutual understanding and goodwill.

The declaration supports the UN system and adherence to international law principles, opposing hegemony and force policies. Commitment to multilateralism strengthens global governance, promotes international peace, and fosters cooperation on global challenges.

SCO & BRICS cooperation: Recent initiatives

Azerbaijan supports China's Global Development, Security, and Civilization Initiatives, committing to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Collaborative efforts on global initiatives enhance sustainable development, security, and cultural understanding, benefiting the international community.

China's support for Azerbaijan's enhanced legal status in the SCO and its desire to join BRICS fosters regional and global cooperation. Active participation in regional and global organizations strengthens Azerbaijan's international standing, promotes cooperation, and enhances geopolitical stability.

Azerbaijan has undertaken several initiatives to further strengthen ties with China. The Heydar Aliyev Foundation has been actively promoting cultural and educational exchanges, establishing a significant presence in China. This foundation plays a crucial role in enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation between the two nations.

Additionally, Azerbaijan is making concerted efforts to attract Chinese investment and promote the Middle Corridor as a vital route for China to export goods via Central Asia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey to Europe. These initiatives underscore Azerbaijan's strategic commitment to deepening economic and infrastructural ties with China.

Historical context of Azerbaijani-Chinese relations

Azerbaijani-Chinese relations date back to the ancient Silk Road, which served as a critical trade route connecting Asia with Europe. This historical connection laid the foundation for enduring cultural and economic exchanges between the two regions.

During the Soviet period, when Azerbaijan was part of the USSR, the relationship with China was largely mediated through the Soviet Union. However, cultural and academic exchanges persisted, maintaining a thread of connection.

Following Azerbaijan's independence in 1991, the two nations embarked on a new phase of bilateral cooperation. Early engagements focused on diplomatic recognition and establishing the framework for economic and political cooperation.

Azerbaijan has undertaken several initiatives to further strengthen ties with China. The Heydar Aliyev Foundation has been actively promoting cultural and educational exchanges, establishing a significant presence in China. This foundation plays a crucial role in enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation between the two nations.

The joint declaration between Azerbaijan and China establishes a comprehensive framework for a strategic partnership, encompassing political, economic, cultural, and security domains. This partnership is rooted in mutual respect and shared strategic interests, promising significant benefits for both nations and contributing to regional and global stability and development.