In a televised interview with China’s Phoenix TV, Hikmat Hajiyev, the Assistant to the Azerbaijani President and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department, shed light on a range of critical issues spanning from peace negotiations with Armenia to strategic partnerships with China.
Hajiyev’s remarks offered a window into Azerbaijan’s diplomatic and economic objectives, encompassing its involvement in significant global endeavors such as the “Belt and Road” initiative and the forthcoming 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), for which Baku has been designated as the host city.
Hajiyev emphasized Azerbaijan’s efforts to maintain its territorial integrity and sovereignty, referencing the nation’s right to self-defense under the United Nations Charter.
Azerbaijan Presidential Advisor (Credits: Caspian News)
He expressed optimism about reaching a peaceful resolution with Armenia, noting a serious reduction of tensions along the Armenian-Azerbaijani border and pointing out that recent months have been among the calmest periods in their relations.
Addressing the protracted negotiation process under the OSCE Minsk Group, Hajiyev critiqued the lack of tangible results over 30 years, contrasting it with the current near-peace state.
He underlined Azerbaijan’s commitment to transforming the Caucasus region into a zone of peace and cooperation, mentioning that despite previous occupation, Azerbaijan had initiated the draft of a peace treaty.
On the topic of China’s “Belt and Road” initiative, Hajiyev highlighted Azerbaijan’s early endorsement of the project and its strategic position in facilitating a competitive, safe, and efficient East-West transportation corridor.
According to him, this route offers a vital link for European companies to Asian markets, reinforcing the mutual benefits of Azerbaijani-Chinese cooperation.
Looking ahead to COP29, Hajiyev underscored the importance of climate financing discussions, signaling Azerbaijan’s active engagement in global environmental governance.
Hikmat Hajiyev, Azerbaijan President Advisor (Credits: Aze.Media)
He also spotlighted Azerbaijan’s role as a key energy provider to Europe while stressing the ongoing energy partnership with China, particularly in transitioning to green energy.
Discussing the bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and China, Hajiyev reflected on the deep-seated friendship and mutual support that has characterized their interactions since Azerbaijan gained independence.
He recalled President Ilham Aliyev‘s fruitful visit to China in 2019, during which President Xi Jinping warmly acknowledged the solid personal and diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Hajiyev reaffirmed the countries’ mutual respect for territorial integrity and the broad scope for further cooperation within international frameworks and economic domains, highlighting the principle of One China as a cornerstone of Azerbaijan’s foreign policy.
