Tianjin: Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, held a meeting with Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, on August 31 in Tianjin, China, Trend reports. The meeting was marked by discussions on enhancing bilateral relations and expanding cooperative efforts between the two nations.
According to , President Xi Jinping expressed gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev for attending the SCO Plus Summit and participating in events marking the 80th anniversary of China’s victory over foreign military aggression and fascism. Xi Jinping underscored the longstanding cooperative relations between Azerbaijan and China, highlighting their evolution into a comprehensive strategic partnership over the past 30 years. He recalled President Aliyev’s previous state visit to China, emphasizing the importance of the discussions held during that visit.
The Chinese President noted the growth in trade turnover and cooperation in areas such as energy and the digital economy. He highlighted the role
of the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative in strengthening Azerbaijan-China relations, particularly through the Trans-Caspian route for transporting Chinese goods. Xi Jinping also reiterated China’s support for Azerbaijan’s ties with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and emphasized the importance of direct dialogue for lasting peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
President Aliyev expressed his appreciation for the invitation and congratulated China on the 80th anniversary of its victory. He recalled his state visit to China and the significant impact of discussions with President Xi Jinping on the development of bilateral cooperation. Aliyev emphasized that strengthening relations with China is a priority in Azerbaijan’s foreign policy and acknowledged the increase in trade relations and the efficiency of the Middle Corridor for transporting Chinese cargo through Azerbaijan.
The Azerbaijani President also affirmed support for China’s positions on Taiwan, Hong Kong, and the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, no
ting Azerbaijan’s early condemnation of elections in Taiwan. He stated that negotiations for normalization and peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia are progressing, with peace already established between the two countries.
The meeting concluded with both leaders expressing satisfaction with mutual support in international organizations and the recent development of tourism relations following a visa-free travel agreement. A broad exchange of views on future cooperation prospects between Azerbaijan and China was also held.