Azernews.Az

By Laman Ismayilova

Minister of Culture and Tourism Abulfas Garayev, who was on a visit to Portugal, met with his Portuguese counterpart Luiz Philipp de Castro Mendes on January 19.

During the meeting, bilateral relations in the field of culture, the work on the implementation of joint projects were discussed. Garayev spoke of the events to be held in connection with the 10th anniversary of the Baku Process, as well as the Humanitarian Forum and invited the Portuguese Minister to take part in the events to be held in Azerbaijan.

At the meeting it was agreed that the Memorandum of Understanding on the development of cultural relations between the two countries was signed and signed this year.

Negotiations on preparation of the Action Plan were held on the basis of the memorandum.

The minister then met with Executive Director for Cultural Heritage of Portugal, Paulo Araugo Da Silva.

Issues of joint cooperation between Azerbaijan and Portugal in the field of cultural heritage preservation were discussed at the meeting.

Garayev also met with the head of the North – South Center of the Council of Europe, Ambassador Antonio Gamito during his visit.

In his speech, Antonio Gamito stressed that numerous international events held in Azerbaijan testify the development of the traditions of multiculturalism and tolerance in the country. He also noted that Azerbaijan pays much attention to this sphere.

The ambassador pointed out that scientists and specialists involved in the mentioned events share the same opinion. He also highly appreciated the implementation of such kind of projects.

The officials stressed the importance of the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue held in Azerbaijan.

Garayev talked about the events to be held in connection with the 10th anniversary of the Baku process. He informed the Portuguese Minister about the International Humanitarian Forum and invited him to take part in events related to these events.

The Azerbaijani minister stressed that cooperation with the North – South Center of the Council of Europe will continue to be of great importance for Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan and Portugal established successful relations despite the geographical distance between the two countries.

Portugal and Azerbaijan signed a number of cooperation agreements. The representatives of both countries often pay high-level visits. The two countries are actively cooperating as part of the international forums.

Azerbaijan and Portugal have a high potential for cooperation in the fields of information technologies, tourism, construction, agriculture, health and education.

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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova

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