The Diplomat
In a important step towards enhancing bilateral relations, Azerbaijan and Spain convened for the next round of political consultations between their Ministries of Foreign Affairs in Madrid. The meeting was led by Azerbaijan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Fariz Rzayev, and Spain’s Secretary of State for Foreign and Global Affairs, Diego Belio Martínez.
The discussions focused on the current dynamics and future prospects of cooperation between the two nations across various sectors, including political, economic, and humanitarian areas. Both delegations underscored the importance of maintaining a continuous political dialogue and highlighted the value of high-level meetings and mutual visits in fostering stronger ties.
One of the key topics addressed was the need for a robust contractual and legal framework to facilitate expanded cooperation. The officials acknowledged the significance of inter-parliamentary relations between Azerbaijan and Spain, emphasizing that “mutual visits and enhanced bilateral and multilateral contacts would be beneficial”.
Economic cooperation was a focal point of the discussions, with an emphasis on mutual trade and the active involvement of Spanish companies in Azerbaijan. The delegations explored opportunities for collaboration in diverse sectors, such as trade diversification, investment promotion, alternative energy, transportation, high technologies, and agriculture.
In the realm of humanitarian relations, the conversations highlighted the importance of cooperation in education and culture, as well as tourism exchanges, as tools for strengthening international connections.
The consultations also touched upon various international agenda topics, including ongoing cooperation in multilateral formats. Notably, Azerbaijan’s preparations for the upcoming session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), set to take place in November 2024, were shared with the Spanish delegation.
Additionally, Deputy Minister Rzayev provided insights into the post-conflict situation in the region, detailing Azerbaijan’s efforts towards establishing sustainable peace, addressing landmine issues in liberated territories, and the extensive reconstruction initiatives currently underway.
During his visit, Rzayev also engaged with other Spanish officials, including members of the Spanish parliament, and participated in roundtable discussions with researchers and experts, further solidifying the collaborative spirit between Azerbaijan and Spain.
“As the two nations continue to explore avenues of cooperation, the Azerbaijani embassy said, these consultations mark a crucial moment in their diplomatic relationship, paving the way for a prosperous partnership in the years ahead.”
