Baku: Relations between China and Azerbaijan have developed steadily and dynamically in recent years across political, economic, and humanitarian spheres, rising to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership. High-level mutual visits, the continuous growth of trade turnover, cooperation in transport and logistics, and projects implemented within the framework of the 'Belt and Road' initiative have further strengthened bilateral ties. At the same time, exchanges in culture, education, tourism, and other humanitarian fields have enhanced mutual trust and understanding between the two peoples. Mutual support demonstrated on international and regional issues-especially the principle of respect for core national interests-confirms the reliable and long-term nature of China-Azerbaijan relations.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Azerbaijan, Lu Mei, spoke to APA in an interview about China-Azerbaijan relations and prospects for future cooperation.
In 2025, relations between China and Azerbaijan reached a significant milestone, with unprecedented diplomatic activities and interactions between the heads of state. President Ilham Aliyev visited China twice during the year, and both countries signed a Joint Declaration establishing a comprehensive strategic partnership. These visits highlighted the close ties between the two nations, with President Aliyev often accompanied by his family, demonstrating the personal nature of the relationship.
Trade and economic cooperation between China and Azerbaijan have shown rapid growth. In the first ten months of 2025, trade turnover between the countries reached USD 2.44 billion, a 21.9 percent increase from the previous year. Chinese investments in Azerbaijan span various sectors, including construction materials, retail, the automotive industry, and renewable energy. Notably, the first batch of 50 electric buses was produced at the BYD plant in Azerbaijan, contributing to environmentally friendly transportation options.
Azerbaijan's role in China's 'Belt and Road' Initiative has been instrumental, with significant progress made under the strategic leadership of both countries' heads of state. The initiative has fostered political interaction, infrastructure connectivity, trade facilitation, and financial integration, elevating bilateral relations to a new level.
Cultural and educational exchanges have also flourished, with an increasing interest in learning the Chinese language in Azerbaijan. More than 8,000 people have registered to study Chinese, and Azerbaijani universities are expanding their Chinese language offerings. The mutual abolition of visas for ordinary passport holders has boosted tourism, enhancing people-to-people connections.
China and Azerbaijan's cooperation within international organizations, such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, has been marked by firm mutual support on issues of core interest. China appreciates Azerbaijan's support on matters related to Taiwan, Xinjiang, and human rights in China.
The Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China outlined China's economic and social development goals, with an emphasis on high-quality development, technological advancement, and cultural enrichment. These goals align with Azerbaijan's socio-economic development strategy, paving the way for further cooperation.
China upholds the 'one China' principle, viewing Taiwan as an inalienable part of its territory. The recent U.S. arms sales to Taiwan have been met with countermeasures from China, emphasizing the importance of national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Azerbaijan has reaffirmed its support for China's stance, underscoring the strategic partnership between the two nations.