Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev accepted the credentials of Andreas Gaarder, the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Norway to Azerbaijan, on January 30. The ambassador presented his credentials to the head of state, marking the commencement of his diplomatic mission in Azerbaijan.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral ties between Azerbaijan and Norway. He noted that the cooperation between the two nations initially began in the energy sector and emphasized the potential for further expanding relations. President Aliyev expressed his best wishes to Ambassador Gaarder for a successful tenure in Azerbaijan.

Ambassador Gaarder, expressing his satisfaction with his appointment, affirmed his commitment to enhancing the relationship between Norway and Azerbaijan. He congratulated President Aliyev on the progress made in the peace agenda between Azerbaijan and Armenia. President Aliyev, in response, appreciated the congratulatory message and reiterated Azerbaijan's dedication to fortifying peace.

Ambassador Gaarder also mentioned that Norway would be sending a high-level delegation to attend the World Urban Forum in Azerbaijan. The conversation also touched upon the shared role of Azerbaijan and Norway as energy suppliers to the European Union, with discussions on energy security being a focal point.

The meeting concluded with both sides exchanging views on various bilateral agendas, including cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, energy-particularly renewable energy-investments, and regional transport connectivity. The effective partnership within the framework of COP30 was also acknowledged.