Baku: Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov on Thursday informed NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska on the ongoing normalization process between his country and Armenia. The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry stated that the issue was discussed during a meeting between the two officials in Baku. Bayramov also informed Shekerinska about diplomatic efforts and confidence-building measures undertaken to ensure 'sustainable and lasting peace' in the region, as well as regional transport and connectivity projects.

According to Anadolu Agency, during the meeting, the current cooperation agenda and prospects within the partnership between Azerbaijan and NATO, the work carried out within the framework of partnership mechanisms, as well as regional and international security issues were discussed. Both parties noted the importance of the cooperation between Azerbaijan and NATO, highlighting that the dialogue and interaction being carried out within the framework of their existing partnership 'positively contribute to regional security.'

The statement from the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry further noted that the country's experience in participating in NATO peace support operations and missions, its close support for the processes in Afghanistan, defense reforms, and work done to ensure adaptability were appreciated. Opportunities for cooperation between Azerbaijan and NATO in demining, cybersecurity, and other areas were discussed, with an exchange of views on other bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest also taking place.

NATO announced on Monday that Shekerinska would hold a two-day visit to Baku starting on Wednesday. During her visit, she will also meet with Parliament Speaker Sahiba Gafarova and Elchin Amirbayov, President Ilham Aliyev's representative on special assignments.