Belgrade: President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of Serbia Aleksandar Vucic delivered joint press statements in Belgrade, marking a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the two nations. The press statements were made during Aliyev's visit to Serbia, which coincided with Serbia's Statehood Day, a gesture that both leaders highlighted as a testament to the strong relationship between their countries.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Vucic expressed gratitude for President Aliyev's visit, emphasizing the depth of their discussions on various global and regional issues. Vucic detailed the extensive growth in trade services between the two countries, noting a 16-fold increase since 2012. He also highlighted the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Serbia, which has laid the foundation for cooperation in multiple sectors. Vucic underscored the importance of the upcoming investment forum in Azerbaijan and the significance of Azerbaijan's participation in EXPO 2027 in Serbia.
Vucic further noted the expansion of tourism ties, citing the upcoming launch of a direct flight between Belgrade and Baku. He extended an invitation to Serbian citizens to explore Azerbaijan's capital, Baku, and similarly invited Azerbaijani citizens to experience Serbia's cultural and natural landmarks. Discussions also covered economic cooperation, particularly in agriculture, with an emphasis on the exchange of agricultural products between the two nations.
In terms of energy collaboration, Vucic announced plans for a 500-megawatt gas-fired power plant, a joint venture with Azerbaijani companies. This project is part of a broader initiative to enhance Serbia's energy infrastructure and capacity. Vucic expressed appreciation for Azerbaijan's support in this venture, highlighting the potential for future developments in clean energy and technology sectors.
President Aliyev, in his statement, reciprocated the sentiments of friendship and cooperation. He praised Serbia's economic achievements under Vucic's leadership and reaffirmed Azerbaijan's commitment to strengthening political, economic, and energy ties. Aliyev emphasized the strategic importance of the planned power plant and the role it will play in Serbia's energy security. He also mentioned the ongoing export of natural gas to Serbia and plans to increase this volume, further integrating their energy markets.
Aliyev highlighted the potential for cooperation in renewable energy, with Azerbaijan planning to generate an additional 8 gigawatts of energy capacity by 2032. The leaders agreed on the necessity of enhancing transmission capabilities to facilitate energy exports to Europe.
Both presidents expressed optimism about the future of Azerbaijan-Serbia relations, anticipating more frequent bilateral meetings and collaborative projects. Aliyev extended an invitation to Vucic and the Serbian delegation to visit Azerbaijan, reinforcing the commitment to deepening their strategic partnership.