Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev welcomed Tom¡‚¬Å¡¬€¦¡¬¦¡ Taraba, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Environment of Slovakia, in Baku on May 19, as reported by APA. The meeting underscored the growing cooperation between Azerbaijan and Slovakia.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev reflected on his previous visit to Slovakia and the reciprocal visit by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico to Azerbaijan. He highlighted the recent visits by high-level Slovak delegations to Azerbaijan, which he sees as a testament to the active collaboration between the two nations. The president expressed his satisfaction with the friendship and partnership that exists between Azerbaijan and Slovakia.

Tom¡‚¬Å¡¬€¦¡¬¦¡ Taraba, expressing gratitude for the hospitality, reiterated Slovakia's unwavering support for Azerbaijan, particularly emphasizing support for Azerbaijan's territorial integrity. He acknowledged Azerbaijan's role as a reliable supplier of natural gas to Slovakia, a relationship that has been crucial during Slovakia's times of need.

Furthermore, Taraba pointed out the significance of Azerbaijan hosting the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum, underlining the importance of such international events.

President Aliyev, in response, noted that Azerbaijan currently supplies natural gas to 12 European countries, including 10 European Union member states, and mentioned the potential for expanding this network. Both leaders agreed that the bilateral relations between their countries are of a strategic partnership nature and discussed future cooperation opportunities.