Baku: Azerbaijan is expanding its diplomatic presence in Africa, exploring potential for cooperation,

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan and COP29 Chief Negotiator Yalchin Rafiyev. In his speech at the opening of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Youth Week, he stated that Azerbaijan is strengthening its position as a reliable partner and a platform for dialogue through a foreign policy based on the principles of international law.

The Deputy Minister emphasized that despite Azerbaijan's territories being under occupation for many years, the country has consistently remained committed to international law, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He stressed that these principles continue to serve as the main pillars of a stable and secure world order.

Yalchin Rafiyev highlighted Azerbaijan's role as both a geographical and political bridge between East and West, as well as North and South. He underlined that the country acts as a reliable mediator in promoting dialogue among different states and political groups.

The Deputy Minister noted that Azerbaijan's cooperation with Central Asian countries has progressed to a new stage, with the transition from the C5+1 format to the C6 model already realized. He also mentioned the strategic partnership with the European Union, the development of the Middle Corridor, and the increased diplomatic activity focused on Africa.

He pointed out that the fact that all African countries are members of the Non-Aligned Movement confirms that Azerbaijan shares common values with the continent. Yalchin Rafiyev also noted the vast economic opportunities present in Africa. Azerbaijan is expanding its diplomatic representation and exploring potential cooperation, aiming to establish flexible and effective interaction with African partners and form long-term institutional cooperation mechanisms.