Baku: Azerbaijan and China are fortifying their partnership through trade, climate cooperation, and shared multilateral goals, even in the face of pressure from certain Western actors, according to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. In an interview with China's Xinhua News Agency, Aliyev stated that the relationship between Baku and Beijing "has entered a historic phase" following the Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership signed with President Xi Jinping in July 2024.

According to Anadolu Agency, Aliyev emphasized that both countries, as part of the Global South, have consistently defended its interests. He noted their collaborative efforts in promoting "peace, development, equality, justice, democracy, and freedom" while opposing "hegemony and power politics." Aliyev also acknowledged China's support at the COP29 climate summit held in Baku last November, despite Western attempts to isolate Azerbaijan during the event.

Discussing economic cooperation, Aliyev highlighted a 20.7% increase in bilateral trade in 2024, positioning China as Azerbaijan's largest import partner. He pointed out the significant untapped potential for further investments in technology, energy, and infrastructure. The importance of the Belt and Road Initiative and Azerbaijan's role in the Middle Corridor were underscored, with Aliyev calling it "the most competitive route for delivering goods between China and Europe."

Aliyev further mentioned the value of active dialogue, mutual respect, and trust in deepening bilateral relations, with expanding cooperation in education, language, tourism, and cultural exchanges. He also reaffirmed his support for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and expressed Azerbaijan's commitment to contributing to global peace and sustainable development.