Baku: 'I first came to Azerbaijan in 1999 together with my wife, Kerry. At that time, Azerbaijan was very different from the country I saw when I returned this year to take on this important role,' British Ambassador to Azerbaijan Duncan Norman said at a press conference today, APA reports.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Norman shared personal experiences, recounting his time in early 2025 when he was learning Azerbaijani and stayed with a family in Ganja. He emphasized the patience and generosity of this family, which provided him with invaluable insights into Azerbaijani culture, beyond what he could have learned in a classroom setting.

The ambassador remarked on the transformation of Azerbaijan since his first visit, describing it as dynamic, modern, and internationally connected. Despite these changes, he noted the consistency of the warmth and hospitality of the Azerbaijani people.

Norman concluded by highlighting the significance of his current role, stating that he has arrived in Azerbaijan at a crucial moment for bilateral relations. He emphasized the UK's view of Azerbaijan as an important regional partner and expressed his commitment to fostering the development of this partnership.