Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received the credentials of Elchin Gasimov, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to Azerbaijan, APA reports. The ambassador presented his credentials to the head of state, after which President Aliyev engaged in a conversation with him.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev expressed that the appointment of a diplomat of Azerbaijani descent as Slovakia's ambassador is seen as a sign of Slovakia's respect and trust toward Azerbaijan. He highlighted the strategic partnership between the two countries, mentioning the visit of Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico to Azerbaijan in 2024.

The discussion underscored the mutual understanding and support between Azerbaijan and Slovakia, particularly in the energy sector. The meeting also covered Azerbaijan-European Union relations, highlighting Slovakia's support for these ties and its role as NATO's contact point embassy in Azerbaijan.

President Aliyev spoke about the significance of recent documents signed in Washington, with U.S. President's support, to advance the peace agenda between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He described these agreements as historic and opening new prospects for lasting peace in the region. The President wished the ambassador success in his diplomatic mission.

Ambassador Gasimov affirmed the strategic partnership nature of Azerbaijan-Slovakia relations and conveyed greetings from Slovakia's President and Prime Minister to President Aliyev. He reiterated the invitation for an official visit to Slovakia, which President Aliyev warmly accepted. The meeting concluded with discussions on cooperation in energy and agriculture, and the involvement of Slovak companies in restoration projects in Karabakh.