Azernews.Az

By Sara Israfilbayova

Azerbaijan and Latvia voiced readiness to deepen relations, especially in trade, transport and logistics sectors, as Azerbaijani delegation, led by Parliamentary Speaker Ogtay Asadov held talks with Latvian officials during the visit to Riga.

The Azerbaijani delegation was received by Prime Minister of Latvia Maris Kuchinskis on May 30, who highly appreciated the open and constructive political dialogue with Baku.

He noted the need for the cooperation of the two countries in the economic sphere to reach the level of political ties.

Asadov, in turn, said that 34 documents signed between the two countries serve as a solid regulatory and legal basis for establishing the cooperation.

“The principled position of the two countries on the primacy of such principles of international law as the territorial integrity and sovereignty of states remains unchanged,” Asadov stressed.

Latvian President Raimonds Vejonis, who received the Azerbaijani delegation on the same day, warmly welcomed the Azerbaijani delegation and congratulated on the national holiday - Republic Day.

Asadov thanked the President for his high attention and hospitality, noting that there is a positive development of the political relations.

The traditional reciprocal visits and high-level meetings contribute to the further deepening of bilateral relations, he added.

The President of Latvia stressed that the intensity of the political dialogue between Latvia and Azerbaijan is proved by the fact that our foreign, economic, transport and defense ministers are in constant contact. Vejonis noted with satisfaction that the Azerbaijani community in Latvia, which serves as a bridge between the two states, has become an integral part of the Latvian society.

He went on to say that Azerbaijan is an important partner of the EU in the energy and transit sectors and Latvia highly appreciates the role of Azerbaijan in a number of energy projects, such as TAP, TANAP and others.

In turn, Asadov stressed that Milli Majlis closely cooperates with the Baltic Assembly within the framework of the GUAM PA. This cooperation contributes to the strengthening of relations between the parliaments of Azerbaijan and Latvia.

The sides expressed hope that such special interest and attention will further promote the expansion and development of historical interrelations between Azerbaijan and Latvia.

During the Riga visit, the Azerbaijani delegation was earlier received by Speaker Ināra Mūrniece, who stressed that Azerbaijan is an important partner for Latvia in the South Caucasus region.

She said that the two countries have an active political dialogue. “Latvia sees prospects for further strengthening economic relations,” she said.

The heads of both parliaments agreed that it is important to make efforts to increase the volume of trade, and in this respect a lot depends on the upcoming meeting of the Latvian– Azerbaijani Intergovernmental Commission in Baku.

The Speaker of the Saeima attested that Latvia supports strengthening of the EU-Azerbaijan relations. “We welcome the opening of negotiations on a new EU–Azerbaijan comprehensive agreement. At this point, it is equally important to prepare for the upcoming Eastern Partnership summit,” stressed Mūrniece.

Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkēvičs said Azerbaijan`s role in Europe`s energy architecture is highly appreciated as he met with the Azerbaijani delegation.

“Azerbaijan plays an important role in Europe`s energy security. Latvia-Azerbaijan cooperation in energy sector is of profound significance,” he said, noting that his country fully supports the EU-Azerbaijan relations.

“Latvia is looking forward to Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev`s visit. This visit will strengthen the two countries` relations in all areas,” said Rinkēvičs, further noting that there is a great opportunity to develop the bilateral economic ties.

Asadov, in turn, hailed Azerbaijani-Latvian relations, adding that the two countries celebrate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties.

Asadov further expressed Azerbaijan`s keenness to develop cultural and humanitarian relations.

During the visit, the delegation led by Ogtay Asadov also met with Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Economics of Latvia Arvils Ašeradens.

Ašeradens praised bilateral relations, and stressed the importance of further expansion of economic bonds. The Deputy Premier emphasized the significance of comprehensive use of current potential for deepening cooperation between the two countries.

Asadov, in turn, said mutual understanding and friendship lie at the heart of the ties, mentioning that the Intergovernmental Commission plays an important role in expanding economic ties.

Speaking about Azerbaijan`s economic partnership with the EU, Asadov highlighted the country`s achievements, as well as its potential and infrastructure projects.

Moreover, the Azerbaijani Embassy in Riga organized a celebrative reception on the occasion of May 28 - Republic Day.

The event brought together Ināra Mūrniece, Ogtay Asadov and other top officials, public and political figures, MPs and diplomats.

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