Brussels: President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in an expanded meeting, emphasizing the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and the European Union.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, von der Leyen noted that the relationship between the EU and Azerbaijan is built on a solid foundation.

During the discussions, Ursula von der Leyen recognized President Aliyev's role in promoting a peace agenda and his leadership efforts. Both leaders welcomed the normalization of ties between Azerbaijan and Armenia, the establishment of lasting peace, and the initiation of bilateral trade. The talks also covered the export of oil and petroleum products from Azerbaijan to Armenia and the transit of goods through Azerbaijani territory to Armenia from other countries.

The European Union reiterated its readiness to support the peace initiatives between Azerbaijan and Armenia comprehensively. The meeting also highlighted Azerbaijan's role in regional connectivity between Central Asia and Europe, focusing on the successful energy cooperation between Azerbaijan and the EU.

The discussions praised Azerbaijan's contribution to Europe's energy security, especially with the increase in Azerbaijani gas exports to the European Union since 2022. President Aliyev's meeting with Ursula von der Leyen underscored the importance of Azerbaijan as a reliable partner in the energy sector.