Premier: Azerbaijani President's Visit Step towards Strengthening Alliance

Bratislava, 9 December (TASR) - The visit by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to Slovakia is a very important signal in bilateral relations and a step towards strengthening the alliance between Slovakia and Azerbaijan, stated Premier Robert Fico (Smer-SD) following his meeting with the Azerbaijani head of state on Tuesday during his two-day visit to Slovakia. The discussion focused on developing economic relations, particularly in the energy sector. Fico pointed out that Azerbaijan is an important partner in diversifying gas sources and transport routes. "This role is even more important in the context of RePowerEU, which aims to stop Russian gas imports to the EU by the end of 2027," stressed the prime minister. The topics of discussion also included cooperation in the defence industry, as well as cooperation between the Slovak and Azerbaijani armed forces in the areas of military education, training and exercises. They also touched on cooperation in the field of transport. The talks between the Slovak premier and the Azerbaijani president also touched on international events, including Azerbaijan's relations with Armenia. In this context, Fico congratulated Aliyev on the signing of a peace declaration between Azerbaijan and Armenia in August this year. On the topic of developments in Ukraine, the prime minister emphasised his support for peace initiatives, stressing that violent border changes must not become the new standard. am/df