BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 26. The development of
Azerbaijani-Chinese relations was discussed during a meeting of
Azerbaijani Parliament Speaker Sahiba Gafarova with Chairman of the
Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, Zhao
Leji, as part of her working visit to the country, a statement of
the parliament says, Trend reports.
Leji, warmly greeting the speaker, thanked her for the visit and
participation in the Boao Forum for Asia. He emphasized that the
speaker's trip to China for this forum was a clear indication of
Azerbaijan's commitment to bilateral relations and its support for
the forum.
The chairman expressed satisfaction with the development of
friendly relations between the two countries, which are based on
deep historical roots and serve the fundamental interests of their
peoples. He noted that diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and
China, established 34 years ago, have been characterized by mutual
respect and support.
He also highlighted that under the wise leadership of both
countries' presidents, the relationship has risen to the level of
strategic partnership in recent years. Leji mentioned that last
year, two meetings took place between the leaders of Azerbaijan and
China, and the National People's Congress of China intends to work
with the Azerbaijani Parliament to support these initiatives and
further deepen relations.
Gafarova thanked Leji for the warm hospitality and kind words
about Azerbaijan. She recalled with pleasure their previous
meetings at international events in various countries and mentioned
that this was her first visit to China in her capacity as Speaker
of the Azerbaijani Parliament. Gafarova expressed hope that the
visit would contribute to expanding relations between the two
parliaments and increase mutual visits.
The speaker noted that next year will mark the 35th anniversary
of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and
China. She emphasized that the relationship has always been built
on friendship, mutual respect, and support, and today,
Azerbaijan-China cooperation continues to expand across many
areas.
Gafarova highlighted that these relations have recently entered
a new phase, with President Ilham Aliyev placing great importance
on strengthening bilateral cooperation. She also noted that the
sincere relationship, mutual respect, and trust between the leaders
play a key role in the development of the partnership. Gafarova
pointed out that President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev's state visit
to China in April last year led to the signing of the Comprehensive
Strategic Partnership Joint Statement.
The issue of mutual support on territorial integrity and
sovereignty was also discussed. Gafarova reaffirmed Azerbaijan's
unwavering support for the "One China" policy, while China has
consistently supported Azerbaijan's sovereignty and territorial
integrity.
Leji expressed China's high appreciation for Azerbaijan's stance
on the "One China" policy and its support for China's position on
Taiwan, Hong Kong, and the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. He
also thanked Azerbaijan for its assistance in the evacuation of
Chinese citizens from Iran.
The meeting highlighted that Azerbaijan was one of the first
countries to support the "Belt and Road" initiative, which China
highly values. Gafarova noted that today, Azerbaijan is a key
transport hub in Eurasia, and the Middle Corridor has become a
reliable, safe, and efficient route connecting China and Europe via
the Caspian Sea.
The discussions also covered the increasing trade,
transportation, and communication cooperation between the two
countries, as well as the growth in cargo transportation along the
Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor. Leji added that
China is interested in developing ties in sectors such as digital
development, artificial intelligence, and green energy. He noted
that the mutual abolition of visas and the creation of direct
flights will further strengthen relations.
The conversation pointed out that both Azerbaijan and China are
members of the Global South. Leji stressed that Azerbaijan's
international role is increasingly growing, and China is committed
to further enhancing support and cooperation with Azerbaijan on the
global stage. He also highlighted China's support for Azerbaijan's
membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and its
chairmanship in the Consultative Meeting on Confidence-Building
Measures in Asia.
The discussion also touched on humanitarian and cultural
cooperation, which has brought the two peoples closer together.
Gafarova commended the successful cultural projects between the
countries, especially the cooperation between the Heydar Aliyev
Foundation and the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with
Foreign Countries.
The two sides also focused on parliamentary cooperation, noting
that this area plays a crucial role in deepening relations.
Gafarova highlighted the importance of the meetings between
President Ilham Aliyev and the Chairman of the Standing Committee
of the National People's Congress during the President's state
visit to China, emphasizing the significance of these
relations.
The meeting underscored active and effective cooperation between
the two parliaments. Mutual visits at the level of speakers and
parliamentary delegations are held regularly, and Azerbaijani MPs
participate in international events hosted by the parliaments of
both countries. MPs also maintain regular contacts within
parliamentary organizations and provide mutual support and exchange
of views.
The conversation also expressed a common vision for further
expanding these relations and increasing exchanges, while also
considering opportunities to enhance institutional ties and
cooperation in various fields through the committees of the
legislative bodies.
Additionally, Leji briefed on the conclusions of the 14th
session of the National People's Congress of China and its adopted
decisions, as well as China's social and economic achievements. He
said that China is ready to share these achievements with friendly
countries, including Azerbaijan.
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