Azerbaijan and China are strengthening their partnership, creating new opportunities and shaping a brighter future together.
Diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and China began in 1992. Over the past three decades, the two countries have enjoyed a steady and resilient relationship based on mutual respect, trust, and cooperation.
In July 2024, Azerbaijan and China adopted a Joint Declaration on the Establishment of a Strategic Partnership during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Astana. This important document aims to enhance cooperation in politics, economics, and culture.
The leaders of both countries, President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan and President Xi Jinping of China, share a strong friendship. Their active dialogue has helped strengthen ties and promote mutual understanding.
Azerbaijan firmly supports the one-China policy, recognizing that there is only one China and that the government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing all of China. Azerbaijan considers Taiwan as an integral part of Chinese territory and opposes any form of “Taiwan independence.”
China has always supported Azerbaijan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. In 1993, China, as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, voted in favor of resolutions demanding the withdrawal of occupying forces from Azerbaijan’s territories. Recently, China welcomed positive progress in the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
Both countries advocate for multilateralism and support the United Nations’ role in international affairs. As developing nations, Azerbaijan and China are committed to strengthening cooperation and protecting the common interests of the developing world. Azerbaijan, during its presidency of the Non-Aligned Movement, supported many developing countries through contributions and donation programs.
Azerbaijan supports China’s Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative, expressing readiness to actively participate in cooperation within these frameworks.
Trade and economic relations between Azerbaijan and China are growing rapidly. In 2024, trade turnover increased by 20% compared to 2023. Around 300 Chinese companies are active in Azerbaijan, and this number is expected to grow. China is one of Azerbaijan’s top five trading partners and a leading source of imported goods.
Cooperation in energy is expanding, with Chinese companies participating in the development of both traditional energy and renewable energy sources in Azerbaijan.
Technology and the digital economy are key areas of collaboration. Azerbaijan is undergoing a digital transformation, and partnerships with Chinese high-tech companies are helping to drive innovation in areas like artificial intelligence.
Azerbaijan plays a vital role as a bridge between East and West, with major transport corridors passing through its territory. The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, also known as the “Middle Corridor,” links China and Europe, offering a reliable and safe path for transcontinental freight transport. Azerbaijan was among the first countries to support China’s Belt and Road Initiative, emphasizing their commitment to deepening practical cooperation.
People-to-people connections are also strengthening. In July 2024, Azerbaijan made a significant decision to exempt Chinese citizens from visa requirements. Chinese tourists can now travel to Azerbaijan without a visa, and the number of visitors from China has doubled over the past year. Direct flights from Beijing and Urumqi to Baku have made travel even easier.
The growing partnership between Azerbaijan and China is shaping a promising future, fostering peace, stability, and development in the region and beyond.
