How strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and China is evolving
Speaker of the Milli Majlis (National Assembly) of the Republic of Azerbaijan Sahiba Gafarova has held a strategically significant meeting with Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of China, as part of her working visit to China.
The Operative Information Center-OMM reports that this contact, taking place within the framework of the Boao Forum for Asia, demonstrates that bilateral relations and inter-parliamentary cooperation between the two countries have entered a new stage.
Expressing satisfaction with the development of friendly relations based on deep historical roots, Zhao Leji noted that during the 34 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and China, ties have been accompanied by mutual respect and support. Under the wise leadership of the two heads of state in recent years, relations have risen to the level of a strategic partnership. The National People's Congress intends to work together with the Milli Majlis (National Assembly) to support the activities of the heads of state and add new dimensions to these relations.
The Boao Forum for Asia, often referred to as the "Asian Davos," serves as a high-level platform for political, business, and academic leaders to discuss pressing regional and global issues. For Azerbaijan, participation in such forums is a key component of its multi-vector foreign policy, aimed at strengthening economic ties with East Asian powerhouses and securing its position as a vital transit hub between Europe and Asia.
New goals on the eve of the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations
Sahiba Gafarova expressed gratitude for the high-level hospitality, emphasizing that this is her first visit to China as the Speaker of the Milli Majlis (National Assembly). She expressed hope that these contacts would contribute to the expansion of relations between the parliaments. Recalling that the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations will be celebrated next year, the Speaker stated that Azerbaijan-China cooperation continues to expand across many fields. It was specifically emphasized that President Ilham Aliyev attaches great importance to strengthening this cooperation.
The sincere relations between the leaders play a crucial role in the development of the partnership. President Ilham Aliyev's expected visits to China in 2025, as well as the Joint Statement on the Establishment of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership signed in July last year, were specifically highlighted.
"One China" policy and mutual support for territorial integrity
During the conversation, mutual support for territorial integrity and sovereignty was expressed. Sahiba Gafarova stated that Azerbaijan always resolutely supports the "One China" policy, while China, in turn, consistently stands by Azerbaijan's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Zhao Leji highly appreciated Azerbaijan's position regarding Taiwan, Hong Kong, and the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Special thanks were also extended to Azerbaijan for its support in the evacuation of Chinese citizens from Iran.
Middle Corridor and Belt and Road Initiative: Economic prospects
It was emphasized during the meeting that Azerbaijan was one of the first countries to support the "Belt and Road" initiative. Sahiba Gafarova noted that today Azerbaijan is an important transport hub in Eurasia, and the Middle Corridor has become a reliable route connecting China and Europe through the Caspian Sea. Satisfaction was expressed over the increase in cargo transportation along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route. Zhao Leji stated that China is interested in developing ties in digital development, artificial intelligence, and green energy. The mutual abolition of visas and direct flights will further enhance these opportunities.
Global South and joint action in international organizations
During the talk, it was noted that both Azerbaijan and China are members of the Global South. The Chinese side supports Azerbaijan's growing international role and intends to strengthen coordination. Specifically, it was mentioned that China resolutely supports Azerbaijan's membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and its chairmanship of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia. In the humanitarian sphere, cooperation between the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries was highly valued.
Inter-parliamentary cooperation strengthening bilateral ties
The parties noted that inter-parliamentary relations hold an important place in deepening ties. Active and effective cooperation exists between the parliaments, with regular mutual visits at the level of speakers and delegations. In conclusion, Zhao Leji provided information on the results of the 14th session of the National People's Congress and China's socio-economic achievements, expressing readiness to share this experience with friendly countries like Azerbaijan.
