Meeting with Jeyhun Bayramov

On May 5, Jeyhun Bayramov, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, held talks with Kaja Kallas, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, focusing on the resumption of negotiations on a new bilateral strategic partnership agreement between Baku and Brussels, as well as discussions on a Partnership Priorities document.

During the meeting, the sides reviewed the current state and future prospects of Azerbaijan–EU relations, emphasizing the importance of intensive political dialogue, reciprocal high-level visits, and cooperation based on mutual respect, equality, and shared interests. Bayramov and Kallas highlighted the relevance of existing dialogue mechanisms and stressed the need to advance negotiations on a new agreement while continuing work on the Partnership Priorities framework. They also exchanged views on expanding cooperation across various EU institutions and programs.

Bayramov informed Kallas about the post-conflict situation in the region, including Azerbaijan’s reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts and measures aimed at addressing landmine contamination. The parties also discussed the Armenia–Azerbaijan normalization process, with the Azerbaijani side reiterating its commitment to achieving lasting peace and stability.

Meeting with Ilham Aliyev

On the same day, Ilham Aliyev, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, received a European Union delegation led by Kallas. During the meeting, the sides recalled previous engagements, noting that Kallas’ visit in 2025 contributed to productive discussions on enhancing bilateral cooperation. Kallas conveyed greetings from António Costa, the President of the European Council, which Aliyev reciprocated.

Kallas emphasized the importance of the joint statement issued by Aliyev and Costa during the latter’s visit to Azerbaijan, stating that it reflects the strategic nature of Azerbaijan–EU relations and reaffirms Azerbaijan’s role as a key partner for the Union.

Aliyev discussed prospects for cooperation in areas such as energy, connectivity, security, and trade, highlighting that the European Union remains Azerbaijan’s primary trading partner. He underlined Azerbaijan’s role in contributing to Europe’s energy security, noting that Azerbaijani natural gas has recently begun to be supplied to Germany and Austria.

The discussion also addressed the Armenia–Azerbaijan peace process, with Aliyev outlining steps taken to advance the peace agenda, including the unilateral removal of restrictions on transit cargo destined for Armenia. He also referred to his participation via video link in the European Political Community Summit, describing it as a significant milestone.

The sides further highlighted cooperation in areas such as digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy. Support from the European Union for Azerbaijan’s demining efforts was also acknowledged, alongside the importance of launching the TRIPP project to enhance regional connectivity.