Singapore: In a recent telephone conversation, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, and his Singaporean counterpart, Vivian Balakrishnan, engaged in discussions regarding the current state and future prospects of bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Singapore. They also addressed several regional and international issues of mutual interest.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the ministers highlighted the potential for expanding cooperation in various sectors. These include political dialogue, mutual visits, economy, trade, investment, digital transformation, innovation, transport and logistics, education, and human capital development. They underscored the significance of advancing the bilateral legal and contractual framework to facilitate these initiatives.

The conversation also emphasized the importance of collaboration within multilateral platforms such as the United Nations and other international organizations. The ministers exchanged views on candidacies for elected bodies of these organizations, reflecting their commitment to active participation on the global stage.

One notable development discussed was Azerbaijan's decision to implement a visa-free regime for Singaporean citizens starting from August 1. Minister Bayramov expressed optimism that this move would significantly contribute to enhancing people-to-people contacts, fostering business ties, and boosting tourism, thereby deepening bilateral relations.

Regional security issues were another focal point of the discussion. Minister Bayramov provided insights into Azerbaijan's efforts to secure lasting peace and stability in the region during the post-conflict period. The conversation also touched upon the large-scale restoration and reconstruction efforts in Azerbaijan's liberated territories and the opening of transport and communication routes to promote economic integration and strengthen mutual trust.

Furthermore, Minister Bayramov highlighted Azerbaijan's strategic relations with Central Asian countries and the contributions of cooperation frameworks such as the C6 format, the Caspian Sea, and the Middle Corridor to sustainable economic integration across Eurasia. The parties also exchanged views on other regional matters of shared interest.