Baku: Former Prime Minister of Belgium Yves Leterme emphasized the importance of the European Union paying special attention to Azerbaijan due to its role as a stable entity in a geopolitically pressured region. Leterme made these remarks at the Southeast Europe and Trans-Caspian Business Summit organized by The Economist during the 13th Global Baku Forum.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Leterme highlighted the potential for economic development in Azerbaijan under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev. He urged the EU to earn Azerbaijan's attention by respecting it as a necessary partner for dialogue. Leterme criticized the EU's approach of passing resolutions that interfere in Azerbaijan's internal affairs, suggesting such actions hinder future negotiations.

Leterme also accused the European Union of employing double standards in its dealings with Azerbaijan. He expressed his embarrassment as a EU citizen over the bloc's contradictory behavior, citing its interference in Azerbaijan's internal matters while subsequently seeking increased gas supplies from the nation.