In a significant diplomatic move, Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang met with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on Wednesday in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. The meeting marked a pivotal step in strengthening the longstanding relationship between the two nations.
Ding, who is also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from Chinese President Xi Jinping to Aliyev. He highlighted that since establishing diplomatic relations 32 years ago, China and Azerbaijan have continuously built mutual political trust, leading to increasingly mature bilateral ties.
The leaders had previously announced the elevation of China-Azerbaijan relations to a strategic partnership during their July meeting in Astana. Ding emphasized the importance of implementing the consensuses reached by both heads of state, aiming to propel the bilateral relationship to new heights.
China expressed its willingness to collaborate with Azerbaijan based on sincere mutual trust and mutual benefit. The focus will be on strengthening political guidance and deepening comprehensive cooperation to achieve development and revitalization goals for both countries.
Additionally, Ding congratulated Azerbaijan on successfully hosting the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Baku. He affirmed China's readiness to work with Azerbaijan to contribute to international efforts for building a sustainable and beautiful planet.
China values Azerbaijan's significant role in both international and regional affairs. Ding stated that China is prepared to partner with Azerbaijan in implementing the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative, thereby promoting the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.
Azerbaijani President Aliyev reciprocated by expressing appreciation for the strong strategic partnership between the two nations. He highlighted Azerbaijan's support for China's major initiatives and its active collaboration on the Belt and Road Initiative. Aliyev also expressed interest in expanding cooperation in areas such as trans-Caspian international transport, trade, investment, industry, and renewable energy to further enhance bilateral relations.
Furthermore, Aliyev emphasized Azerbaijan's commitment to strengthening international cooperation with China, supporting multilateralism, promoting inter-civilizational dialogue, and advancing fairness and justice within the international community.
Reference(s):
Chinese vice premier meets with Azerbaijani president Aliyev
cgtn.com