The EU reconfirmed its interest in enhancing cooperation with Azerbaijan.
According to the press release of the European External Action Service (EEAS), this was discussed at the fourth meeting of the EU-Azerbaijan Security Dialogue in Brussels on May 3, 2023.
The meeting was co-chaired by EEAS Deputy Secretary General Enrique Mora and Assistant of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Head of Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmet Hajiyev.
The participants discussed the normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, regional security issues, and the EU’s role in supporting peace and stability in the region, and engaged in a constructive discussion on issues of mutual interest in the area of foreign and security policy, and possible future cooperation, among others, on cyber and hybrid threats, fighting violent extremism and terrorism, and on space-related activities.
They also highlighted Azerbaijan’s role as a reliable energy partner.
“In our fourth EU-Azerbaijan Security Dialogue, the EU reconfirmed its interest in enhancing cooperation on foreign and security policy issues, and readiness to work for the benefit of peace, security and stability, especially in the current challenging international context marked by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. The EU is driven by the goal to contribute to building a stable, peaceful South Caucasus. The EU’s key interest is that the normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan progresses. The EU stands ready to support the peace process, also in the trilateral Brussels format facilitated by President of the European Council Charles Michel”, said Enrique Mora.
Hikmet Hajiyev said that Azerbaijan is a reliable partner of the EU in the region.
“Azerbaijan significantly contributes to the energy security of Europe. Azerbaijan actively promotes peace and stability in the region and contributes to global efforts to fight against terrorism, radicalism, illegal migration, and drug trafficking,” Mr. Hajiyev pointed out.
H. Hajiyev also added that Azerbaijan is currently conducting unprecedented reconstruction and humanitarian mine clearance in its territories: «We highly appreciate the financial support of the EU on mine action. Azerbaijan presented five basic principles for a peace treaty to Armenia, based on mutual recognition of territorial integrity and sovereignty. Azerbaijan supports the initiatives to normalize relations with Armenia, including the Brussels peace process facilitated by President of the European Council Charles Michel.”
In conclusion of the meeting, the EU and Azerbaijani officials agreed to continue regular exchanges on the issues relevant for them and for the wider region.
