President Ilham Aliyev met with the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in Abu Dhabi on February 2.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that during the meeting, the heads of state emphasized that bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and the UAE are based on a strategic partnership. They expressed satisfaction with the development of cooperation across all sectors, including political, economic, energy—specifically renewable energy—cultural, and humanitarian fields. Both leaders noted the significance of mutual visits and high-level meetings in expanding these ties.
The discussions highlighted the importance of the "Peace Shield – 2026" joint operational-tactical exercise currently being held in Abu Dhabi between the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates. The presidents expressed confidence that these exercises would contribute to the development of operational military compatibility between the two nations and stressed the importance of continuing such cooperation in the future. Furthermore, a letter of intent regarding a defense cooperation agreement was signed between the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Defense of the United Arab Emirates.
A significant economic milestone was reached during the visit as the leaders oversaw the signing of a sale and purchase agreement. The document concerns the sale of a specific portion of the non-controlling stake owned by the Ministry of Economy in the "Southern Gas Corridor" CJSC to XRG, the investment arm of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC). Additionally, the sides discussed establishing sister-city relations between Baku and Abu Dhabi to further strengthen urban and cultural bonds.
This high-level engagement underscores the deepening integration between Azerbaijan and the UAE, particularly in the strategic energy sector. The Southern Gas Corridor is a critical initiative for regional energy security, transporting Caspian natural gas to European markets. By involving ADNOC, a global energy giant, Azerbaijan continues to diversify its investment portfolio and strengthen its position as a reliable energy hub in Eurasia. These agreements reflect a shared vision for long-term economic stability and regional security between the two partner nations.
