Baku:There is a pressing need to increase the number of direct trips between Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom to foster stronger people-to-people ties, as stated by UK Minister of State for Trade Lord Anas Sarwar. He made these remarks during the 8th meeting of the Azerbaijan-UK Joint Intergovernmental Commission held in Baku.
According to Azeri-Press news agency, Lord Sarwar emphasized the importance of direct travel between the two nations as a key factor in enhancing bilateral relations. He expressed a clear understanding of the need to boost tourism and called for conditions that would facilitate the entry of more British companies into Azerbaijan, as well as Azerbaijani businesses entering the UK market.
The minister highlighted the significance of increasing mutual high-level visits and extended an open invitation for Azerbaijani ministers to visit the United Kingdom. Strengthening cooperation in education was also identified as a priority, with Lord Sarwar noting that expanded ties between educational institutions could benefit various sectors, including the economy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, healthcare, innovation, and human capital.
Additionally, Lord Sarwar expressed interest in seeing more Azerbaijani companies participate in London’s capital market. He revealed discussions with Azerbaijan’s President about this and expressed a desire to further develop cooperation in this area.
Agriculture and the food and beverage industry were pointed out as promising sectors for expanding trade relations. Lord Anas Sarwar concluded his remarks by expressing satisfaction over the agreement on a strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom, anticipating its signing by the respective heads of state and government.