Relations between Azerbaijan and the European Union have recently entered a new stage from quality point of view, becoming deeper and more multifaceted.
Deputy of Milli Majlis (Azerbaijani Parliament) Mushfig Jafarov told APA that this dynamic is the result of both regional geopolitical changes and the atmosphere of mutual confidence formed between the parties. In particular, the visit to Azerbaijan of the High Representative of the European Union (EU) for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice-President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, clearly demonstrates that these relations are developing on reliable foundations.
Kaja Kallas' visit: an indicator of confidence and political dialogue
Kaja Kallas' visit to Azerbaijan is not accidental and is a clear example of the high level of EU-Azerbaijan relations. The MP notes that the fact that this visit took place immediately after the European Political Union Summit in Armenia is an indicator of the importance Brussels attaches to relations with Baku: "Kaja Kallas has previously visited Azerbaijan and held meetings with President Ilham Aliyev within the framework of various international platforms. This is an indicator of the continuous political dialogue that has developed between the parties."
The MP said that although various political groups represented in the European Parliament are trying to undermine Azerbaijan-EU relations, these attempts do not yield real results: "On the contrary, there is close and continuous cooperation between the executive structures of the European Union, in particular the European Commission, and Azerbaijan. It is this institutional cooperation that determines the real essence and strategic nature of the relations."
Concrete agenda for cooperation
Mushfig Jafarov emphasized that today's meeting between Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and Kaja Kallas once again clearly reveals the directions for the development of relations: "The current state and future prospects of Azerbaijan-EU relations were discussed in detail during the talks held one-on-one and in an expanded format. During the meeting, the intensity of political dialogue and the importance of high-level mutual visits were particularly emphasized. The parties noted the importance of developing cooperation on the basis of the principles of mutual respect, equality and common interests. At the same time, the resumption of negotiations on a new bilateral agreement and the continuation of the process on the Partnership Priorities document came to the fore."
The deputy noted that one of the main factors ensuring the sustainable development of relations between Azerbaijan and the European Union is institutional dialogue mechanisms. Currently, the dialogue between the parties is successfully continuing in three main areas: transport, energy security and security. These mechanisms serve to establish cooperation on a systematic and long-term basis.
