"Belgium is one of the founding members of both the European Union and NATO. In fact, we consider these two organizations very important in our foreign policy, and their role is significant in our relations with Azerbaijan as well. We fully support the agenda of deepening relations with the European Union and NATO," Julien de Frepon, Ambassador of Belgium to Azerbaijan, said in an interview with APA.
"Relations with the European Union already cover a very broad range of topics – energy, trade and many other areas – and we support the further development of these ties. In fact, 2026 will be a very important year in this regard, because Azerbaijan and the European Union have decided to hold negotiations on deepening relations and concluding a new partnership agreement. Belgium will fully support this process. There are also positive developments in relations with NATO. We see Azerbaijan as a very important partner for NATO," the Ambassador noted.
He also recalled that Azerbaijan has contributed to some NATO missions over many years, including the mission in Afghanistan: "We highly appreciate this. There are good prospects for further deepening relations between Azerbaijan and NATO. I think NATO is planning to appoint a new Special Representative for the South Caucasus in the near future, and we consider this a good opportunity for the development of relations. Overall, we believe that there are many areas in which we can work together with Azerbaijan to strengthen security in the region, and I can give two examples in this regard. Azerbaijan has demonstrated a very ambitious and extremely positive position regarding Ukraine: it has provided extensive humanitarian assistance, which is very important, and at the same time supported the restoration of Ukraine’s electricity infrastructure. We consider this very significant.
Belgium fully supports Ukraine and we consider Azerbaijan’s contribution to be decisive. Another example is the Middle East. This is a very topical issue at the beginning of the year as we are following the events in Iran. In general, Azerbaijan has played an important role in ensuring stability in the Middle East region. We are very grateful for Azerbaijan’s assistance in helping Belgian citizens leave the country during the war in Iran last year. We also regard this as a clear example of positive cooperation and partnership that can be established with the Azerbaijani government on these issues."
