On May 8, Rumen Radev, the President of the Republic of Bulgaria, was ceremoniously welcomed upon his arrival for an official visit to the Republic of Azerbaijan. The visit featured a series of important engagements, including both private and extended meetings between Ilham Aliyev, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and President Radev.

Agreements signed

During this high-level visit, a significant signing ceremony took place, attended by President Aliyev and President Radev, where they endorsed the "Joint Declaration on Strengthening the Strategic Partnership between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Bulgaria." This document underscores the ongoing commitment to enhancing the bilateral relations between the two nations.

Furthermore, multiple agreements were formalized in the presence of high-ranking officials from both countries. Elmin Mammadov, the Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Hristo Todorov, a Board Member of "Bulgaria Air" JSC, signed a "Code Share Agreement between Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC and Bulgaria Air JSC." In a similar vein, Deputy Minister Mammadov and Vladimir Malinov, the Caretaker Minister of Energy of the Republic of Bulgaria, concluded a "Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Innovation and Growth of the Republic of Bulgaria," aimed at fostering cooperation in technological innovation.

Additionally, Mikayil Jabbarov, the Minister of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Dimitar Tsotsorkov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Asarel-Medet JSC, signed a "Memorandum of Understanding between State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic and Asarel Investment EAD," marking another step forward in strengthening the economic ties between Azerbaijan and Bulgaria.

Press statements

During their official statements on May 8, Ilham Aliyev and Rumen Radev highlighted the significant outcomes of their high-level discussions and the signings of several crucial agreements. 

President Aliyev remarked, "Today, the visit of the President of the Republic of Bulgaria has marked yet another significant milestone in our strategic partnership, established since 2015. We discussed a broad range of topics concerning Azerbaijan-Bulgaria relations and planned future initiatives. Our partnership, especially in the energy sector, has led to increased cooperation and tangible results." He added that the annual increase in Azerbaijani gas exports to Bulgaria was a testament to this, noting that exports had reached 1.25 billion cubic meters last year, expected to rise to 1.5 billion cubic meters by year-end, thus covering about 50% of Bulgaria's gas consumption.

He further highlighted the successful modernization of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, facilitated by Azerbaijani investment, which has significantly enhanced its capacity. This makes it a vital part of the Middle Corridor and strengthens the trade and economic ties between the two nations.

President Rumen Radev elaborated on the importance of Azerbaijan as a key energy partner supporting Bulgaria's gas supply diversification, aligning with European Union strategies for energy security. "Our cooperation extends beyond energy. It includes initiatives in green energy, education, culture, and tourism, reinforcing our robust bilateral relations," he stated. Radev expressed his appreciation for Azerbaijan's dynamic development and proactive international diplomacy, particularly highlighting Azerbaijan's upcoming role as the host of COP29, which Bulgaria supports.

Both leaders emphasized the significance of their discussions, which are set to enhance the strategic partnership between their nations further. They pointed out the alignment in their efforts to strengthen regional stability and connectivity, thereby boosting relations not only between their countries but also across Europe and Asia.