BAKU: Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang on Wednesday held talks with Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev in Baku. Ding, who is also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized the stable development of China-Azerbaijan relations under the strategic leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the two heads of state elevated China-Azerbaijan relations to a strategic partnership in July, setting a new direction for future cooperation. Ding highlighted the importance of implementing the agreements made by the leaders, supporting each other’s core interests, and fostering long-term development and prosperity for both nations.
Ding expressed China’s commitment to aligning the Belt and Road Initiative with Azerbaijan’s development strategies, aiming for productive cooperation. He mentioned China’s intention to enhance trade and investment ties, faci
litating the entry of Azerbaijani products into the Chinese market and encouraging investment from both sides.
China is adapting to green and low-carbon transitions while deepening energy cooperation. Ding stressed improving connectivity to ensure the smooth operation of China-Europe freight trains and collaborating with Azerbaijan on the trans-Caspian international transportation corridor.
Furthermore, Ding called for increased collaboration in culture, education, science, tourism, and other areas to foster mutual understanding. He advocated for mutual support in international and regional matters to protect shared interests.
Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister Mustafayev acknowledged the significance of the Belt and Road Initiative and reiterated Azerbaijan’s support. He emphasized the strong bilateral relationship and expressed a desire to enhance cooperation in various sectors, aligning development strategies with China for greater bilateral progress.