Tokyo: The 12th Joint Meeting of the State Commission for Economic Cooperation between Japan and the Republic of Azerbaijan, along with the Japan-Azerbaijan Economic Committee, took place in Tokyo on 26 September. This event brought together representatives from government institutions and private sector organizations in both countries.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the meeting commenced with bilateral discussions led by Rovshan Najaf, President of SOCAR and Chairman of the State Commission for Economic Cooperation between Japan and Azerbaijan, alongside Tetsuya Yamada, Chairman of the Japan-Azerbaijan Economic Committee and Executive Officer of ITOCHU Corporation. The leaders examined current cooperation and explored new partnership opportunities.
The event marked the 33rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Japan. Participants underscored the growth of bilateral ties in economic, social, and humanitarian areas, and highlighted Japan’s significant role as a partner in Azerbaijan’s energy sector and as a major foreign investor.
Discussions emphasized Azerbaijan’s strategic position as a transit hub, enhancing regional connectivity through its modern infrastructure. The meeting also explored Azerbaijan’s reconstruction projects in Karabakh and East Zangezur, inviting Japanese investment in these regions rich in resources and development potential.
Special attention was given to energy cooperation, acknowledging the role of ITOCHU and INPEX in major projects like Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli and Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan. Renewable energy and energy transition collaboration were also discussed, highlighting joint efforts in decarbonization.
The meeting concluded with the signing of the Protocol of the 12th Joint Meeting by Najaf and Yamada. Additionally, the Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Agency and Japan Business Association ROTOBO signed a Memorandum of Cooperation, alongside other agreements fostering economic ties.