Meeting between Jeyhun Bayramov and Leo Docherty

On February 22, Jeyhun Bayramov, the Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan, met with Leo Docherty, the Under-Secretary of State for Europe, the Press Office of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry reported.

At the meeting, the current state of bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Great Britain, prospects for the future development of cooperation in various fields, and the current regional situation were discussed. During the meeting, views were exchanged on oil, gas, investment, trade, transport, and cooperation prospects in the transition to green energy, education, and humanitarian fields.

"Minister Jeyhun Bayramov emphasized the dynamic development of our relations in political, economic, humanitarian, and other fields based on mutual trust and support between our countries and the importance of continuing official contacts and high-level mutual visits. Noting the special importance of relations in the energy field between our countries, the minister gave detailed information about the large-scale energy projects implemented in the region with the initiative and participation of Azerbaijan and noted their important role in ensuring the energy security of Europe. Satisfaction with the successful activities of British companies in Azerbaijan was expressed. At the same time, the contribution of the United Kingdom to the demining of the occupied territories of Azerbaijan and their close participation in the reconstruction and restoration of these territories were appreciated. It was stated that the further development of successful cooperation in the field of education between our countries is important," the information added.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the current situation of the normalization process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, the peace agreement negotiations, and various aspects of the protests on the Lachin road. "Informing the other party about the steps taken by our country towards the normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, the minister gave detailed information about the recent situation around the Lachin road and said that the protests were against the abuse of the Lachin road and illegal economic activity, as well as the blockade and the humanitarian situation. that the related allegations have no basis, and in this context, the other side was informed about the legitimate demands and security interests of our country," the Ministry stated.

"At the same time, the other side was informed about the initiative of our country to sign the peace agreement and its efforts in this direction. It was brought to our attention that despite Armenia's refusal to participate in the negotiations on the peace agreement scheduled to be held in December and the obstacles created by the process, our country adhered to the process and carried out the exchange of comments on the text of the peace agreement. It was emphasized that it is necessary for Armenia to avoid its destructive position and return to the negotiation table," it added.

Leo Docherty, in turn, emphasized that his country is interested in developing bilateral cooperation with Azerbaijan and that Azerbaijan-Great Britain relations are developing dynamically. He said that it is important to eliminate the difficulties that hinder peace in the region, and the United Kingdom is ready to provide support in this direction.

Leo Docherty praised Baku for its "brave step" toward Kyiv 

During a discussion at the ADA University (Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy) on the topic "Priorities of the Foreign Policy of the Kingdoms," Leo Docherty said that the security of Azerbaijan is as important as the security of Britain. 

"Given the regional situation and problematic neighbors [hinting at Russia], Azerbaijan took a bold step and provided humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. We highly appreciate it. Azerbaijan also contributes to the energy security of Europe. Your country plays an important role in energy and transport," the minister said.

According to him, although earlier cooperation between London and Baku was based mainly on energy resources, it currently covers various areas and will be even more multi-vectored in the future.