Gabala: President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister of the Czech Republic Andrej Babidelivered press statements highlighting the strengthening of economic and energy relations between the two nations.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, President Aliyev emphasized the dynamic development of bilateral relations, which have been marked by active political dialogue and economic cooperation. He noted the significant increase in trade turnover, which now exceeds 800 million dollars, and expressed a desire for a more balanced trade structure. President Aliyev highlighted the importance of cooperation in the energy sector, with Azerbaijani oil playing a crucial role in the Czech Republic’s energy supply. Discussions are ongoing to further enhance this partnership, including potential long-term cooperation in natural gas exports.
The defense industry also emerged as a key area of collaboration, with Azerbaijan purchasing military-grade products from the Czech Republic. Both leaders explored joint production opportunities, aiming to bolster Azerbaijan’s defense potential with Czech expertise.
Prime Minister Babiexpressed gratitude for Azerbaijan’s hospitality and reaffirmed Azerbaijan as a strategic partner for the Czech Republic. He underscored Azerbaijan’s pivotal role in the global energy landscape, noting that 42% of the Czech Republic’s imported oil originates from Azerbaijan. The Prime Minister expressed interest in signing a long-term gas supply contract through CEZ, a major Czech energy company, further solidifying energy ties.
Babialso highlighted the presence of Czech companies eager to invest and establish joint ventures in Azerbaijan, particularly in infrastructure projects like the Baku Metro. He emphasized the historical industrial prowess of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic’s readiness to engage in science, research, and collaborative ventures with Azerbaijan.
Both leaders acknowledged the importance of the Intergovernmental Commission in facilitating these discussions and ensuring the successful implementation of agreed-upon projects. The meeting underscored a shared commitment to accelerating and intensifying economic relations, laying the groundwork for future cooperation between Azerbaijan and the Czech Republic.