Presidents Rumen Radev and Ilham Aliyev have formalized a significant milestone in the relationship between Bulgaria and Azerbaijan by signing a Declaration on Strategic Partnership. Radev's visit to Baku, at the invitation of Aliyev, marks a continuation of diplomatic efforts between the two nations. This latest meeting between the Bulgarian and Azerbaijani leaders underscores the mutual commitment to deepening ties and exploring opportunities for collaboration.
In addition to the Declaration on Strategic Partnership, the visit witnessed the signing of several other agreements designed to foster stronger bilateral relations. These include a joint operation agreement between Bulgaria Air and Azerbaijan's national airline AZAL, signaling a potential boost in aviation cooperation. Furthermore, a memorandum of understanding between the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan and Asarel Investment JSC seeks to enhance cooperation in the energy sector. The agreements also extend to the realm of technological innovation, as exemplified by the memorandum of understanding between Bulgaria's Ministry of Innovation and Azerbaijan's Ministry of Digital Development and Transport.
Azerbaijan's importance as a key energy partner for Bulgaria was highlighted during the visit, with the country currently supplying half of Bulgaria's annual gas consumption. This partnership plays a crucial role in diversifying gas supplies for Bulgaria, contributing to energy security and stability in the region. The ongoing collaboration between Bulgaria and Azerbaijan across various sectors reflects a shared vision of bolstering bilateral relations and exploring new avenues for economic and technological cooperation.