Aliyev and Rinkēvičs discuss expanding cooperation and back Azerbaijan–Armenia peace process

On April 22, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of Latvia Edgars Rinkēvičs held talks in Baku and delivered press statements outlining plans to deepen bilateral cooperation and support regional stability.

Aliyev said the visit would “create new opportunities for cooperation in different areas” and highlighted the strong foundation of bilateral ties. “The Declaration on a Strategic Partnership… creates a legal framework and elevates our relations to a very high level,” he said.

The Azerbaijani leader noted that discussions covered a wide range of issues, including economic cooperation and regional security. He stressed the need to boost trade and investment, adding that the business forum could deliver concrete results. “It will be a real breakthrough in increasing the volume of our mutual trade, which is, unfortunately, still somewhat modest,” Aliyev stated.

He also pointed to potential direct flights and investment opportunities, noting that Azerbaijani investors are “ready to engage” in joint projects.

Touching on regional developments, Aliyev said there had been tangible progress in relations with Armenia. “In fact, we have de facto peace since last August… there have been many positive developments, including the beginning of trade,” he said, adding that progress was driven by “political will and strategic vision.”

Rinkēvičs described the talks as “very positive, very pragmatic, and oriented towards future cooperation,” reaffirming Latvia’s commitment to strengthening ties.

“Our trade needs to be increased… there are plenty of opportunities in the fields of the defense industry, transportation, and pharmaceuticals,” he said.

The Latvian president also welcomed progress in the peace process. “We very much look forward to the speedy progress… this is important not only for the region but also for the whole world,” he noted.

Rinkēvičs further emphasized Azerbaijan’s strategic role for Europe, particularly in energy and the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, and expressed support for closer EU–Azerbaijan ties, including visa liberalization.

Both sides confirmed their intention to expand cooperation across economic, transport, education, and regional security sectors.