Baku: The Prime Minister of the Czech Republic, Andrej Babi during his official visit to Azerbaijan, expressed his commitment to enhancing bilateral relations between the two nations. In an interview with the APA Information Agency, Azerbaijan Television, and APA TV, Babiemphasized the honor of visiting Azerbaijan and outlined plans for future cooperation.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Babi highlighted Azerbaijan's strategic importance to the Czech Republic, particularly in energy supply. Azerbaijan is currently the primary supplier of crude oil to the Czech Republic, accounting for 42% of its consumption. Babinoted the interest in Azerbaijani natural gas, with Czech state company CEZ seeking long-term procurement agreements. Discussions are also underway regarding investments from both sides to enhance this energy partnership.
The Prime Minister also addressed the European Green Deal's impact on industry and emphasized the strategic importance of Azerbaijan due to regional geopolitical dynamics. Furthermore, Babi discussed potential collaborations involving Czech defense companies, including joint ventures and existing concrete business proposals. He mentioned ongoing negotiations for contracts related to Baku's underground infrastructure and tram systems, highlighting KODA Transportation's involvement.
Investment opportunities in tourism were also a focus. Babi mentioned potential investments in the airport at Karlovy Vary, a popular destination for Azerbaijani and Central Asian tourists. He stressed the importance of improving infrastructure, such as a delayed highway project from Prague to Karlovy Vary, to facilitate tourism.
Babi expressed optimism about high-level mutual visits and further intensification of bilateral relations, mentioning plans for his First Vice Minister to return to Azerbaijan. He highlighted the importance of personal relations developed with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, and the potential for cooperation in various sectors, including agriculture and healthcare.
Regarding the Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership signed in 2015, Babi emphasized the need to transform agreements into actionable projects. He reiterated the Czech Republic's support for diversifying energy supply sources and highlighted the importance of competition in energy markets to prevent reliance on dominant suppliers.
Babialso acknowledged the significance of Central Asia, noting that Azerbaijan serves as a strategic gateway for expanding Czech exports beyond EU markets. He expressed satisfaction with the normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, hoping for continued regional stability.
Finally, Babiconfirmed interest in participating in 'smart city' and 'smart village' projects in Azerbaijan's liberated territories, citing shared interests with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orb¡n. The Prime Minister concluded by expressing his wishes for success and prosperity for Azerbaijan and reaffirming the friendly relationship between the two nations.