During a high-profile meeting that culminated in the signing of a Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership, both leaders delivered press statements outlining the future of their collaborative efforts.
President Aliyev highlighted the declaration as a landmark moment in Slovakia-Azerbaijan relations, marking the highest level of diplomatic engagement between the two nations. Key focus areas included defense, energy, and economic collaboration. Notably, agreements in defense and defense industry sectors were signed, initiating discussions on establishing joint production facilities, which signify a step toward deeper military cooperation.
Energy discussions were also pivotal, with President Aliyev expressing hopes of expanding Azerbaijan’s gas exports to include Slovakia, making it the ninth country to import Azerbaijani natural gas. This expansion is part of Azerbaijan’s broader goal to increase its gas exports to Europe to 20 billion cubic meters by 2027, reinforcing its role as a critical energy supplier.
Economic interactions were further highlighted during a Slovakia-Azerbaijan business forum, attended by numerous Slovak business leaders. This forum underscored strong mutual interests in deepening trade and investment. Additionally, Slovak companies are taking part in reconstructive efforts in Azerbaijan’s liberated territories, including “smart village” projects that symbolize the practical and profound aspects of the partnership.
Prime Minister Fico emphasized the shared values and aspirations between the two nations. He remarked on the productive nature of their discussions and expressed his admiration for Azerbaijan’s sovereign stance in international affairs:
“Mr. President, your leadership and Azerbaijan’s sovereign policies are highly commendable. You are a pragmatic person, and it is clear that Azerbaijan upholds international law and values its territorial integrity,” Fico stated. He also highlighted Slovakia’s willingness to act as a bridge between Azerbaijan and the European Union, aiming to present Azerbaijan’s situation objectively to European stakeholders.
“We are ready to serve as a bridge between Azerbaijan and the European Union. We want to show the objective situation in Azerbaijan to the European Union. We must fight for justice,” Fico added, pointing out the strategic importance of an unbiased perspective.
In his closing remarks, Prime Minister Fico expressed a deep respect for Azerbaijan and its people, stressing the potential for further cooperation:
“Mr. President, I want to wish you personally the best of luck. I convey my best wishes to your country and people. You are a sovereign country, a model country when it comes to sovereignty. I have always appreciated such countries when it comes to sovereign positions and ideas. You stand up to injustice, and I will try to apply the same approach to Slovakia, so that Slovakia can conduct a sovereign foreign policy,” Fico concluded.
This strategic partnership marks a significant step in enhancing the bilateral ties between Slovakia and Azerbaijan, illustrating a mutual commitment to expanding their relationship across various sectors and setting a precedent for future cooperation and dialogue.
