Baku: President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of Guinea-Bissau Umaro Sissoco Embal³ underscored the strengthening of bilateral relations between their countries during a joint press statement. The press event marked an official visit by President Embal³ to Azerbaijan, his second visit following attendance at the COP29 conference in November.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev emphasized the historical significance of this visit as it marks the first official visit by a President of Guinea-Bissau to Azerbaijan. He highlighted the robust political relations between the two nations, evidenced by their mutual support in international organizations such as the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Non-Aligned Movement. The discussions also focused on enhancing economic cooperation, with Azerbaijan expressing readiness to explore investment opportunities and collaboration in the defense industry.

President Embal³ expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and reiterated the importance of renewing cooperative efforts in sectors like health, education, the military, and security. He noted the historical ties between the countries, with many technical personnel from Guinea-Bissau having studied in Azerbaijan during the Soviet era. He also announced the arrival of a team for training in the Azerbaijani army and police, underscoring the practical steps being taken to fortify bilateral cooperation.

Both leaders agreed on the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration, with President Aliyev expressing his intent to visit Guinea-Bissau in the future. The press statements concluded with a reaffirmation of the shared ideologies and commitments that bind the two nations, setting a clear trajectory for future partnerships.