On March 12, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov met with Timko Muchunski, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of North Macedonia, to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including trade, energy, and tourism.

During the meeting, the ministers focused on strengthening political dialogue and enhancing cooperation in economic, trade, energy, and tourism fields. Bayramov emphasized the importance of deepening friendly and partnership relations between the two countries, noting that mutual visits and high-level contacts play a crucial role in this process. He also highlighted the need to explore new opportunities for bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade and investment.

The ministers discussed prospects for energy sector cooperation, with Bayramov underscoring Azerbaijan's role in Europe's energy security as both an energy supplier and a transit country. The conversation also touched on expanding collaboration in renewable and alternative energy sources. Additionally, they explored ways to boost tourism, emphasizing the need for joint efforts to promote the cultural heritage and tourism potential of both nations.

Bayramov also briefed his counterpart on the post-conflict situation in Azerbaijan’s region, including reconstruction efforts, mine threats, and the ongoing normalization process with Armenia. He reiterated Azerbaijan’s commitment to fostering peace and security in the region. The ministers further discussed potential avenues for cooperation between Azerbaijan and North Macedonia within international organizations.

Following the meeting, both ministers participated in a signing ceremony for an agreement between Azerbaijan and North Macedonia, exempting holders of diplomatic and service/official passports from visa requirements.

Later that day, Minister Bayramov held a telephone conversation with Seyid Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, to discuss Azerbaijani-Iranian bilateral and regional relations.

Bayramov reiterated the importance of political dialogue in strengthening ties between the two countries. He emphasized the strategic significance of joint projects in energy, transport, and investment, particularly focusing on transport corridors through Iran and infrastructure projects linking Azerbaijan’s western regions with the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.

The conversation also covered the role of the intergovernmental economic commission in enhancing trade and economic relations, along with other matters of mutual interest.