Nakhchivan:Jeyhun Jalilov, the Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, met with a European Commission delegation led by Adrienn Kiraly, the Director of Neighbourhood East and Trkiye at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Enlargement and the Eastern Neighbourhood.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the meeting focused on the successful development of relations between Azerbaijan and the European Commission, emphasizing strategic partnership, friendship, and mutual trust under President Ilham Aliyev’s leadership. Both parties highlighted the importance of long-term and mutually beneficial cooperation between Azerbaijan and EU member states.
The discussions also addressed the agreements between Azerbaijan and Armenia within the peace agenda framework. It was noted that sustainable peace and stability in the region would enhance transport and communication opportunities, expand economic ties, and deepen collaboration.
Jeyhun Jalilov described Nakhchivan as strategically important at the crossroads of East-West and North-South transport corridors. He underscored the significance of the Zangezur Corridor and the TRIPP project in enhancing regional transport connectivity. The project aims to facilitate land transit between Nakhchivan and Azerbaijan, with a railway link to Trkiye. A peace treaty between Azerbaijan and Armenia would further increase the significance of these routes.
The energy potential of Nakhchivan was another focus, with discussions on renewable energy projects and the construction of hydroelectric power stations in the Ordubad district. Future connections to the Jabrayil energy hub and potential electricity exports to Trkiye and other markets were also considered.
Agricultural development, tourism potential, and industrial expansion in Nakhchivan were discussed. Officials highlighted progress in the metallurgical industry and production capacity development. They also explored 10-year tax exemptions for entrepreneurs and improvements to the investment climate, aiming to transform the region into a free economic zone.
Elisabetta Falcetti from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development emphasized the significance of these projects, outlining financing opportunities and the role of concessional loans.
Adrienn Kiraly stressed the importance of the visit and the development of Nakhchivan’s transport, energy, and economic potential. Economic aspects of future European Commission projects and prospects for further cooperation were also discussed.