Baku:Azerbaijan's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jeyhun Bayramov, recently met with Tom Berendsen, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, to discuss the future of Azerbaijan-Netherlands relations. The meeting was held to explore strengthening political dialogue, expanding trade and investment, and identifying new cooperation opportunities in various fields including energy, transport, agriculture, and innovation.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the ministers highlighted the significance of the upcoming 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2027. They expressed mutual interest in reinforcing existing bilateral ties and pursuing new avenues for cooperation. The adoption of the 2026-2028 Roadmap for the Development of Azerbaijan-Netherlands Relations was welcomed as a step forward in advancing political dialogue and practical cooperation.

The discussions also included promoting mutual investment, maximizing the potential of the newly established Azerbaijan-Netherlands Chamber of Commerce, and strengthening connections between business communities. Azerbaijan's strategic role in the Middle Corridor and the opportunities provided by the Baku International Sea Trade Port and the Alat Free Economic Zone were also addressed.

Further, the ministers emphasized expanding educational, academic, and scientific cooperation, fostering relationships between higher education institutions, and initiating joint cultural and humanitarian projects. Bilateral cooperation within international organizations and regional and global issues were also part of the discussions.

Jeyhun Bayramov briefed his Dutch counterpart on regional developments, including efforts to normalize relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia and ongoing peace processes. He stressed the importance of removing territorial claims from the Armenian Constitution as a prerequisite for finalizing a peace agreement. Azerbaijan's restoration efforts in liberated territories and the safe return of displaced persons were also discussed.

The issue of landmines and their humanitarian challenges was another focal point, emphasizing the need to eliminate threats and facilitate reconstruction efforts and the return of displaced individuals. The meeting concluded with press statements from both ministers on the meeting's outcomes.