Baku:President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, received the credentials of Etienne Berchtold, the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Austria to Azerbaijan.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Ambassador Berchtold expressed his honor in assuming the role and conveyed his intention to improve his Azerbaijani language skills. President Aliyev welcomed this effort and noted his satisfaction with the ambassador's use of the Azerbaijani language.

President Aliyev expressed optimism about strengthening ties between Azerbaijan and Austria in various domains, including political dialogue, the economy, mutual investments, and cultural exchanges. He highlighted the longstanding presence of Austrian companies in Azerbaijan and emphasized the potential for increasing their participation.

The president also acknowledged the development of bilateral relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties, based on mutual respect. He wished Ambassador Berchtold success in his diplomatic mission.

Ambassador Berchtold affirmed his commitment to enhancing bilateral relations. Both parties underscored the significance of reciprocal visits, political consultations, and interparliamentary ties in fostering bilateral relations, as well as cooperation in international organizations.

The discussion also noted Azerbaijan's role in Europe's energy security, referencing the start of Azerbaijani natural gas supplies to Austria earlier this year.