Baku: President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan and President Antonio Costa of the European Council convened in Baku, emphasizing the strategic significance of the Azerbaijan-EU partnership.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the leaders expressed their dedication to enhancing political dialogue and cooperation across security, energy, and transport sectors, which aligns with their shared interests in promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Black Sea, South Caucasus, and Central Asia regions.
The joint statement underscored that the Azerbaijan-EU relationship is based on mutual respect, equality, and shared benefits, adhering to international law and the sovereignty of states. The Presidents committed to finalizing a new comprehensive bilateral agreement to further develop relations and highlighted existing dialogue mechanisms like the Azerbaijan-EU Cooperation Council.
The discussion included recent positive developments in the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process, with both leaders applauding the outcomes of the 2025 Washington Summit and subsequent steps toward normalizing relations. The EU reiterated its support for Azerbaijan and Armenia's efforts to achieve sustainable peace through dialogue.
Azerbaijan's post-conflict reconstruction efforts in Garabagh and Eastern Zangezur were highlighted, with a call for increased international support, especially in humanitarian de-mining, where the EU is a leading donor. The talks also focused on expanding Azerbaijan-EU cooperation through the 'Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities for Socio-Economic Development' plan.
Regional connectivity was a key topic, with Azerbaijan's role in the Middle Corridor strengthening transport and trade links. The EU committed to cooperation under the Global Gateway initiative, supporting railway modernization in Nakhchivan and other projects.
Energy partnership was acknowledged, with Azerbaijan recognized as a reliable partner in diversifying Europe's energy supplies. Both parties committed to expanding cooperation in renewable energy and electricity interconnection initiatives, such as the Black Sea Submarine Cable project.
Climate change and environmental protection cooperation were reaffirmed, building on the outcomes of COP29 in Baku. The upcoming World Urban Forum in 2026 was highlighted as an opportunity to enhance cooperation in sustainable urbanization.
Defense and security cooperation were discussed, addressing threats like organized crime and terrorism. The leaders also emphasized digital transformation and innovation, expressing readiness to collaborate on artificial intelligence and other technologies to foster economic resilience.
People-to-people contacts were prioritized, with a focus on enhancing mobility through the Visa Facilitation Agreement and strengthening cooperation in education, culture, and research. The meeting also touched on current geopolitical issues, including developments in Iran and Ukraine.