European Union – one of the major trade partners of Azerbaijan

Baku, November 29, AzerTAc

“European Union is one of the major trade partners of our country, Azerbaijan plays an important role in ensuring energy security of Europe, a number of projects are being implemented in the energy sector”, the Minister of Economy and Industry of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev said at the meeting with Vice-President of the European Commission for Energy Union Maros Sefcovic. 

Shahin Mustafayev spoke of the relations between the two countries and congratulated Maros Sefcovic on his new appointment, wished success on his activity.

He noted that the share of member states of the European Union in Azerbaijan’s foreign trade turnover was 44 percent in 2013 and 48 percent in 2014.

Up to now, Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, Action Plan within the framework of the European Neighborhood Policy, East Partnership Initiative and other important documents were signed between Azerbaijan and the European Union. Visa facilitation and readmission agreements came into force between Azerbaijan and EU, since September 1. Twinning, TAIEX, Sigma, Budget Support plays an important role in the development of relations between Azerbaijan and the European Union. Since 2012, more than 60 business forums and other events were held with European Union countries.

Minister Mustafayev highlighted the socio-economic development in the country and its role in region, and noted the creation of a favorable business and investment climate, health and education projects in Azerbaijan.

The event also discussed the delay of solution of the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh which impedes regional integration.

Vice president said that they were interested in expanding cooperation between Azerbaijan and EU.