Chinese Premier Li Qiang welcomed Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to Beijing on Wednesday, ushering in a new era of cooperation between the two nations. The leaders announced the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership, marking a significant milestone in their 33-year diplomatic relationship.
“China and Azerbaijan have always respected each other and treated each other as equals, fostering deep friendship and trust,” Li stated. He emphasized the deepening pragmatic cooperation that has brought tangible benefits to both peoples.
The partnership aims to enhance strategic mutual trust and expand bilateral cooperation to larger scales and wider fields. Li expressed China’s readiness to align the Belt and Road Initiative with Azerbaijan’s development strategies. This includes advancing the construction of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor and establishing the China-Europe Trans-Caspian Express.
Highlighting emerging fields, Li said, “China is willing to deepen cooperation in green energy, digital technology, and the digital economy.” He encouraged strengthening people-to-people exchanges and exploring potentials in culture, tourism, and education to promote mutual understanding.
Aliyev affirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to the one-China principle, expressing firm opposition to “Taiwan independence.” He conveyed eagerness to expand trade and investment, and to develop cooperation in transportation, logistics, energy, agriculture, and tourism.
“Azerbaijan highly appreciates China’s significant role in international affairs,” Aliyev noted. He expressed support for China’s global initiatives and a willingness to collaborate within multilateral frameworks to maintain regional peace and stability.
The meeting signals a shared vision for an equal and orderly multipolar world, advocating for inclusive economic globalization. Both leaders agreed to continue mutual support on issues concerning each other’s core interests and major concerns.
