In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations, Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang met with Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev on Wednesday in Baku.
Ding, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, highlighted the steady development of China-Azerbaijan relations under the leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.
The two nations elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership earlier this year, setting a new roadmap for collaboration. Ding emphasized the importance of implementing the leaders' key agreements, supporting each other on core interests, and fostering long-term growth and prosperity for both countries.
Aligning the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with Azerbaijan's economic and social strategies is a key focus, with China aiming to enhance trade and investment cooperation. The partnership includes initiatives to introduce more high-quality Azerbaijani products to the Chinese market and encourage mutual investments.
Environmental sustainability is also on the agenda, with Ding noting China's commitment to green and low-carbon transitions and deepening energy cooperation. Efforts are underway to strengthen connectivity and develop the trans-Caspian international transportation corridor, ensuring safe and efficient operations of China-Europe freight trains.
Beyond economic ties, the talks covered cooperation in culture, education, science, and tourism, aiming to facilitate people-to-people exchanges and mutual understanding. Both sides are committed to coordinating on international and regional issues to safeguard shared interests and support developing nations.
Azerbaijani Deputy PM Mustafayev echoed these sentiments, reaffirming Azerbaijan's support for the BRI and its dedication to the one-China principle. He expressed optimism about further aligning development strategies and expanding cooperation in trade, investment, energy, finance, and beyond.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
