26 July 2024 14:41

On 26 July 2024, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, who is on an official visit to our country.

The tête-à-tête meeting between the ministers was followed by an expanded meeting with the participation of delegations from both sides.

During the meeting, prospects for the development of bilateral and multilateral cooperation between the two countries, future steps to be taken in this direction, as well as the current regional situation were discussed.

Minister Jeyhun Bayramov noted that over the 20 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Somalia, particularly in recent years, the increase in contacts between our countries has played a useful role in discussing cooperation prospects. In accordance with the signed agreement on political consultations between Azerbaijan and Somalia, the importance of using such mechanisms to expand cooperation was emphasized.

It was noted that there is potential for the development of cooperation in a number of areas, including agriculture, fisheries, oil and gas industry, green energy, humanitarian and education sectors, and the importance of conducting mutual contacts and exchange of experience in this direction was highlighted.

It was emphasized with satisfaction that cooperation based on mutual respect, support and solidarity within international and regional organizations, particularly the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Non-Aligned Movement, is progressing successfully. It was expressed that Somalia’s non-permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council for 2025-2026 will be supported by our side in efforts toward international peace and security. At the same time, it was noted that Somalia can benefit from our country’s educational scholarship programs within the framework of the Non-Aligned Movement and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

It was also noted that within the framework of our country’s presidency of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), we are ready to cooperate with Somalia.

Minister Jeyhun Bayramov stated that our chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement has contributed to strengthening relations with African countries and noted that the development of cooperation remains one of our priorities, including expanding relations with the African Union Commission.

Minister Jeyhun Bayramov also informed the other side in detail about recent developments in the region in the post-conflict period, as well as reconstruction efforts in the liberated territories and challenges facing the peace process. The continued support by Somalia for our country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty was recalled with gratitude.

During the meeting, an exchange of views was also held on other issues of mutual interest.

Following the meeting, the ministers made statements at a press conference on its outcomes.