Baku: The Czech Republic has expressed interest in establishing mobile power plants in Azerbaijan’s liberated territories, according to Milan Sedl¡cek, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Czech Republic to Azerbaijan. In a recent interview with the Azeri-Press News Agency (APA), the Ambassador highlighted the robust bilateral relations between the two nations and their shared commitment to expanding cooperation in various sectors, including energy.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Milan Sedl¡cek emphasized the strategic importance of Azerbaijan as a key oil supplier to the Czech Republic, meeting 40-45% of its oil demands. He underscored the significance of the “Joint Declaration on Strategic Cooperation” signed in 2015, which provides a framework for developing political, economic, cultural, and educational ties. The Ambassador noted the active role of the Czech Republic-Azerbaijan Intergovernmental Joint Commission in fostering these relations and mentioned plans for its upcoming meeting in Baku.
The Ambassador also reflected on the impact of recent global political changes on diplomatic relations, particularly noting the positive developments following Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev’s visit to Prague in October 2022. He highlighted the importance of such high-level meetings in strengthening ties and facilitating dialogue, especially in light of historical tensions in the Garabagh region.
Additionally, Milan Sedl¡cek discussed the increasing trade turnover between the two countries, which reached approximately 1 billion US dollars in 2022. He attributed this growth to the resumption of activities disrupted by the global pandemic and emphasized the potential for further economic collaboration. The Ambassador expressed optimism about ongoing negotiations with Azerbaijan Airlines to increase flight connectivity, reflecting the high demand for travel between the two nations.
In the context of energy cooperation, the Ambassador revealed the Czech Republic’s proposals for joint projects in green energy and the construction of small-scale hydropower plants. He expressed the Czech Republic’s interest in developing mobile power plants in Garabagh to bolster the region’s energy resources, with negotiations expected to commence soon.
Concluding the interview, Milan Sedl¡cek addressed the broader geopolitical landscape, referencing historical lessons and advocating for diplomatic solutions to global tensions. He stressed the importance of compromise and negotiation in international relations, expressing hope for a future characterized by reduced tension and increased cooperation.