Azerbaijani FM, outgoing Japanese envoy discuss trade, energy ties (PHOTO)

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 19. Azerbaijan discussed expanding economic, trade, and energy cooperation with Japan during Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov's meeting with Japan's outgoing ambassador Katsuya Watanabe on October 19.

This was reported by the Foreign Ministry’s press service in a statement.

During the meeting, the current state and prospects for the development of Azerbaijani-Japanese relations were discussed, and the ambassador’s contribution to the development of bilateral ties during his tenure was noted with satisfaction.

The meeting also reminisced about Jeyhun Bayramov’s visit to Japan earlier this year and the discussions held during that visit. The parties reviewed issues of cooperation within international organizations, emphasized the importance of mutual support, and the need to continue dialogue in multilateral forums.

In addition, it was noted that Azerbaijan’s successful hosting of international events, including COP29, the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), and the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-25), demonstrates the country’s contribution to the development of international cooperation, the advancement of the sustainable development agenda, and the resolution of global challenges.

During the conversation, special attention was also paid to expanding contacts between the parties and developing cooperation in the fields of education, culture, and sports. In this context, it was noted that Azerbaijan’s unilateral introduction of a visa-free regime for Japanese citizens contributes to strengthening bilateral ties and developing tourism exchanges.

The parties also discussed opportunities to further strengthen mutual interest and cultural ties between the two nations through sports such as judo and sumo. The significance of prestigious competitions held in Azerbaijan in these sports was emphasized.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Jeyhun Bayramov expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Katsuya Watanabe for his efforts during his diplomatic tenure in Azerbaijan and wished him success in his future endeavors. The parties also exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest.