30 April 2024 14:31

On 30 April 2024, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, participated and delivered a speech at the 3rd meeting of the League of Arab States – Central Asia – Republic of Azerbaijan Cooperation and Economic Forum.

In his remarks, Minister Jeyhun Bayramov spoke about the prospects for developing diplomatic and economic relations between Azerbaijan and Central Asian and Arab countries, with which Azerbaijan shares historical and cultural ties, noting that discussions held within the Forum contributed to the formation of a concrete roadmap for cooperation in various fields, including energy security, transport, tourism, agriculture, and high-tech industries.

It was emphasized that Azerbaijan is always ready for joint action aimed at building strong economies in the broader region and addressing global challenges.

The Minister highlighted Azerbaijan’s strategic geographical position in Eurasia — serving as a bridge between Europe and China via the Middle Corridor through Central Asia, and between the North and South by providing access to the Gulf countries — as well as its infrastructure capabilities and business-friendly environment, which position the country as a hub for regional cooperation and connectivity.

Particular attention was drawn to Azerbaijan’s significant renewable energy potential and the importance of promoting investments in this sector, including ongoing projects implemented jointly with companies such as “Masdar” of the United Arab Emirates and “ACWA Power” of Saudi Arabia.

Minister Jeyhun Bayramov also spoke about the advancement of the Black Sea Submarine Cable initiative, which could contribute to the export of alternative energy and further strengthen Europe’s energy security, noting the potential for participation by other Caspian countries in this project.

Providing information on preparations for the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), hosted by Azerbaijan, the Minister stated that Azerbaijan is determined to bring together the “Global North” and the “Global South” by drawing on its experience as Chair of the Non-Aligned Movement. He noted that COP29 could serve as a platform for cooperation with Central Asian and Arab countries in renewable energy, climate-resilient agriculture, and disaster risk management.

The Minister also provided detailed information on the post-conflict situation in the region, large-scale reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts in the liberated territories, the mine threat posing risks to these efforts, and the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He stressed that bilateral and direct peace negotiations supported by Azerbaijan are the most effective path toward sustainable peace and stability in the South Caucasus, as demonstrated by recent agreements between delimitation commissions.

Expressing concern over ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the Minister reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s support for a just and lasting resolution based on the “two-state solution” and noted the country’s continued assistance in addressing the humanitarian consequences for the Palestinian people.

The Doha Declaration adopted at the end of the Forum recognized the League of Arab States – Azerbaijan – Central Asia format as an important platform supporting bilateral and multilateral cooperation on issues of mutual interest and emphasized the need for result-oriented approaches without duplication of efforts.

The Declaration also reflected support for the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, called for the swift conclusion of a peace agreement, and highlighted the importance of the delimitation agreement providing for the return of four Azerbaijani villages.

It further expressed appreciation for the United Arab Emirates’ membership in the UN Security Council in 2022–2023 and called for strengthened coordination and mutual support within international organizations.

Satisfaction was expressed with Azerbaijan’s chairmanship of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA) for 2024–2026, along with support for organizing joint projects and events between CICA and the League of Arab States.

The Doha Declaration also expressed deep concern over the mine threat affecting peace, stability, and security in several countries, including Azerbaijan, and called on the United Nations, its member states, and other stakeholders to provide support in addressing this challenge.

Azerbaijan’s election to the COP29 Presidency was welcomed, with support expressed for efforts to combat climate change and best wishes extended for success in advancing global solidarity in this area.

The Declaration also emphasized the importance of the green energy corridor connecting Azerbaijan and Central Asia in addressing climate change and facilitating the transition to green technologies.