Baku, Azerbaijan, April 28.
Azerbaijani-Chinese relations have evolved with increasing dynamics
since the restoration of Azerbaijan’s independence in 1991, with
diplomatic missions established in both countries in 1992, and
since then, the relationship has continually developed at various
levels, MP Arzukhan Alizadeh said in an interview with Trend.
He highlighted that, since 1995, Chinese companies have invested
nearly $1 billion in Azerbaijan’s economy.
“In parallel, Azerbaijan has invested around $2 billion into
China’s economy over these years. The “Belt and Road” initiative
plays a major role in deepening economic relations between our two
countries and the region. Azerbaijan’s geographical location,
bridging Asia and Europe, positions the country as a key player in
these processes, with infrastructure projects enhancing its role as
a vital transit hub. Thus, Azerbaijan is an important partner for
both China and regional countries,” Alizadeh said.
Alizadeh further emphasized that, over the years, several
bilateral agreements have been signed.
“Notably, in 2019, at the Beijing International Forum, ten
documents covering the economy, industry, and investment sectors
were signed between the two countries. As a result, over the last
five years, trade turnover between Azerbaijan and China has more
than doubled, surpassing $3.5 billion. This has made China
Azerbaijan’s fourth-largest economic partner. A pivotal moment in
these relations came last July, with the signing of an agreement
between the two countries, which has further deepened strategic
partnership across all sectors,” he added.
The deputy added that President Ilham Aliyev’s foreign policy
has been instrumental in the development of Azerbaijani-Chinese
relations.
“Azerbaijan’s growing importance is not only in the oil and gas
sector but also in renewable energy, ‘green energy’ production, and
export, which will further benefit both countries. Chinese
companies are expected to continue investing in Azerbaijan’s
economy, participating in various infrastructure projects. China’s
role in the implementation of ‘smart city’ and ‘smart village’
projects in liberated territories is particularly significant,” the
MP stressed.
Alizadeh concluded that the continued growth of
Azerbaijani-Chinese relations will contribute to peace, stability,
and the development of sustainable economic ties in the region.
In a separate statement, another member of the National
Assembly, Azer Allahveranov, told Trend that China is a crucial partner in
Azerbaijan’s foreign policy:
“For 33 years, our relations have consistently developed. Today,
these relations are characterized by comprehensive strategic
partnership. The joint declaration signed between our countries
underscores the importance of these ties. This document confirms
that our relations have entered a new phase, one that will take
them even further.
Azerbaijan and China also cooperate closely within the
frameworks of the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation
Organization. He added that the president of China has invited
President Ilham Aliyev to attend the Shanghai Cooperation
Organization summit and the 80th anniversary event of the victory
over fascism, scheduled for this August. Such invitations further
signify the strong friendship and trust between the two leaders and
their nations,” he said.
The MP further highlighted that during the leaders’ meeting, the
significance of the Middle Corridor was emphasized:
“In this context, the increase in transport flows was a key
topic. The cargo transportation capacity of the Middle Corridor is
growing every year. To fully capitalize on these opportunities,
extensive cooperation and infrastructure development are required.
Azerbaijan is actively working on this, and China is playing a
crucial role in the process. The Middle Corridor’s importance, the
establishment of solid infrastructure in Azerbaijan, and the
participation of Chinese companies in these efforts were all
highlighted. Additionally, the pivotal role of the Middle Corridor
and Azerbaijan in facilitating transportation between China and
Europe was underscored. Discussions also covered cooperation in
renewable energy, with a focus on the growing involvement of
Chinese companies in Azerbaijan. Furthermore, the cooperation
between our countries in the technological, humanitarian, and
cultural sectors was particularly noted,” he added.
The deputy further emphasized that China particularly recognizes
Azerbaijan’s role as a key partner representing the interests of
the Global South.
“In this regard, important steps are being taken to continually
strengthen the bilateral relations between the two nations. The
adoption of the strategic partnership declaration last year,
followed by the elevation of these ties to a broad and
comprehensive strategic partnership and their formalization in
legal documents, are significant milestones. Both Azerbaijan and
China are committed to advancing their relations on an ongoing
basis,” Allahveranov concluded.