Azerbaijan: Azerbaijan's recent strategic partnerships with European countries demonstrate the strengthening of a pragmatic and multi-faceted approach in its foreign policy.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, an analysis written by the Romanian publication "Business Talks" mentions that Azerbaijan has further developed its relations with Italy, Slovakia, and Germany in 2026, expanding cooperation in the fields of energy, defense, investment, and reconstruction. This policy further cements Azerbaijan's strategic importance for Europe.

The article notes that cooperation between Azerbaijan and Italy is no longer limited to the traditional energy sector, adding that the countries are taking steps to institutionalize cooperation in the defense industry and explore joint production opportunities. The author emphasizes that this approach could serve as an example for the implementation of similar projects with other European countries in the future.

The report also notes that the "Smart Village" project implemented by Slovakia in the Aghdam district shows the expansion of the participation of European countries in the restoration of the liberated territories of Azerbaijan. Such projects provide new opportunities for cooperation in the fields of construction, digital technologies, and green energy.

The authors also state that the Strategic Partnership Agenda signed with Germany holds particular importance. The document outlines deepening of energy, trade, investment, and economic cooperation, highlighting that relations between the two countries have entered a new stage.

According to the authors, the visit of President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen to Baku in July of 2026 stands out as a major political signal, testifying that the EU highly appreciates Azerbaijan's growing geopolitical and economic role in the region.

The article also underscores that Azerbaijan's growing role in the energy and logistics sectors offers new investment and cooperation opportunities for European companies, including Romanian businesses. Simultaneously, the country's pragmatic diplomacy and foreign policy based on national interests are contributing to further strengthening its influence in the region.