Baku, April 16, 2025 — The Europe Today: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and newly elected President of Georgia Mikheil Kavelashvili delivered press statements in Baku on Tuesday, underscoring the deep-rooted friendship, strategic cooperation, and shared vision for the South Caucasus region.
The statements followed high-level talks held during President Kavelashvili’s first official foreign visit since assuming office—a gesture hailed by both leaders as symbolic of the strong and historic ties between the two neighboring countries.
Highlights from President Ilham Aliyev’s Address:
- President Aliyev warmly welcomed President Kavelashvili, congratulating him on his election and emphasizing the significance of choosing Azerbaijan for his first official visit.
- He praised the enduring brotherhood and peaceful coexistence between the Azerbaijani and Georgian peoples, noting that their cooperation has reached an “exemplary” level.
- Aliyev highlighted a range of joint strategic projects, particularly in the energy and transport sectors, such as oil and gas pipelines and the development of the Middle Corridor.
- He affirmed that Azerbaijan currently exports gas to 12 countries—including Georgia—underscoring the two nations’ crucial role in European energy security.
- Aliyev also stressed the importance of joint efforts toward peace and security in the South Caucasus, expressing hope that the region’s troubled past would give way to lasting peace and prosperity.
- He reiterated Azerbaijan’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations and hailed the continuation of a tradition whereby Georgian leaders prioritize Azerbaijan in their diplomatic outreach.
“Our achievements in the field of transport and communications… have become an integral part of the Middle Corridor,” said President Aliyev. “Our relations will continue to develop along an upward trajectory.”
Highlights from President Mikheil Kavelashvili’s Address:
- President Kavelashvili thanked President Aliyev for the warm reception and described the visit as a reaffirmation of the “strategic and special” Georgian-Azerbaijani partnership.
- He underscored the centuries-old friendship and shared cultural values that unite the two nations, calling them a foundation for future collaboration.
- Kavelashvili emphasized mutual respect for sovereignty and national interests as key pillars of the relationship.
- He expressed support for Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and welcomed the conclusion of negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, voicing hope for a historic peace agreement.
- The Georgian President reaffirmed his country’s policy of peace and readiness to support regional stability through dialogue and diplomacy.
- He also raised concerns over external interference in the region, stressing the importance of regional countries determining their own futures free from foreign pressure.
“No third country or organization can know better than us what is best for our peoples,” said President Kavelashvili. “Together, we will continue to protect our values and interests.”
Mutual Commitment to Regional Peace and Prosperity
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing regional connectivity, economic development, and political cooperation. They also voiced confidence that Azerbaijan and Georgia would continue to play a pivotal role in shaping a stable and prosperous South Caucasus.
President Kavelashvili concluded by inviting President Aliyev for an official visit to Georgia in the near future, emphasizing the enduring spirit of partnership that guides bilateral relations.
