President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to Azerbaijan, Duncan Norman, on August 18.
The ambassador presented his credentials to the head of state.
Starting his speech in the Azerbaijani language, Duncan Norman said: “Your Excellency, when my wife Kerry and I first came to Azerbaijan 27 years ago, we were deeply impressed by the warmth of the people and the great potential of Baku. Since then, Azerbaijan has traversed a path of significant development. I am honored to open a new chapter in relations between our countries.”
Noting that work on a new strategic partnership between the United Kingdom and Azerbaijan is ongoing, the ambassador emphasized that this will further advance achievements through deeper cooperation on shared priorities, strengthening security, and innovation.
The ambassador stated the desire to build a dynamic partnership with Azerbaijan in renewable energy, defense, and aviation, highlighted ties in education, and noted the strengthening of bridges between youth.
He stated that President Ilham Aliyev's efforts toward establishing peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia are appreciated by the UK Government, which supports this progress.
Duncan Norman also recalled that his country was the first international partner to support Azerbaijan's demining efforts.
The head of state wished the ambassador a pleasant stay in Baku and highly appreciated his speaking in the Azerbaijani language.
President Ilham Aliyev noted that issues on the agenda are of great importance not only in the bilateral context but also in terms of regional development and cooperation.
Expressing gratitude to the UK Government for assistance in demining, the head of state noted that Azerbaijan requires closer international cooperation in this field.
Recalling that Azerbaijan-UK cooperation began thirty years ago in the energy sector, President Ilham Aliyev stated that there is currently great potential for partnership in renewable energy, noting in this context that the country's first solar power plant was built by bp.
The head of state emphasized that living one year of the 35 years of independence in peace represents a major shift for the region.
President Ilham Aliyev stated that considering the situation in the region, security will remain a priority on the agenda.
Stating that a positive investment environment has been created in Azerbaijan, the head of state highlighted the strong mutual interest between Azerbaijani and British companies.
President Ilham Aliyev wished the ambassador success in his activities.
