Baku: Africa is today one of the world's most dynamic and promising regions. With its young population, rapidly developing economy, rich natural resources, and growing geopolitical importance, the continent is already playing an important role in shaping the global political and economic agenda, Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister Yalchin Rafiyev said during his speech at the conference dedicated to Africa Day, APA reports.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Rafiyev highlighted that the African Union is currently a full member of the G20 and is seeking two permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council, with Azerbaijan fully supporting this initiative. He emphasized that for Azerbaijan, Africa is not a distant continent but one of partners, friends, and shared aspirations, with relations built on the principles of mutual respect, solidarity, and support for territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Rafiyev expressed gratitude to African countries for their continuous support for Azerbaijan's territorial integrity and sovereignty during the years of occupation and the post-occupation period. In recent years, Azerbaijan's ties with Africa have expanded significantly, with intensified political dialogue, increased diplomatic contacts, and enhanced cooperation in various fields.
Since last year, Azerbaijan has conducted 12 political consultations with African countries and five government missions by the multi-sectoral delegation of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Currently, Azerbaijan maintains diplomatic relations with all African countries except the Central African Republic, with plans to establish relations with that country in September this year.
Over the past three years, trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Africa has grown from 150 million US dollars to 580 million US dollars in 2025, reflecting the great potential of their economic partnership. The number of African leaders visiting Azerbaijan for bilateral visits and events has also increased significantly, including presidents and heads of government from Somalia, Kenya, Egypt, Rwanda, Angola, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Mauritius, and other countries.
Rafiyev noted opportunities for cooperation in areas such as energy and renewable energy, agriculture and food security, transport and logistics, mining, education and vocational training, digitalization, innovation, and public services. In 2024, Azerbaijan hosted COP29, appreciating the active participation of African countries in the event. However, work remains to improve access to climate finance for developing countries, including African states, with Azerbaijan recognizing and promoting Africa's conditions in combating climate change.
Additionally, Azerbaijan has engaged in significant humanitarian cooperation activities. The Heydar Aliyev Foundation and Leyla Aliyeva have implemented humanitarian projects in several African countries. The Azerbaijan International Development Agency, operating under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, continues to implement projects in various areas in Africa.