As global attention turns to Eurasia's evolving partnerships, Azerbaijan and China have elevated their 33-year diplomatic relationship to a strategic partnership during the 2024 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Astana. The move signals deepened collaboration across political, economic, and cultural fronts, driven by shared principles of mutual respect and sovereignty.
Foundations of Trust
Deputy Foreign Minister Elnur Mammadov highlighted the 'resilient nature' of bilateral ties, emphasizing President Ilham Aliyev and General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping's direct leadership in fostering cooperation. Both nations reaffirmed adherence to the UN Charter and the one-China policy, with Azerbaijan explicitly recognizing Taiwan as an inalienable part of Chinese territory.
Economic Synergy in Action
Trade between the two countries surged by 20% in 2024, with over 300 Chinese-invested companies now operating in Azerbaijan. Energy collaboration is expanding beyond fossil fuels into green technology, while Chinese tech firms play a pivotal role in Azerbaijan's digital transformation. 'Artificial intelligence development is a critical frontier,' noted Mammadov.
Global Vision, Regional Impact
As Azerbaijan prepares to host COP29, it aligns with China's Global Development and Security Initiatives. The partnership strengthens connectivity through Azerbaijan's strategic transport corridors – vital arteries in Eurasia's emerging trade networks. Analysts predict enhanced SCO collaboration under China's 2024 presidency could further reshape regional economic dynamics.
