Baku, May 17, 2026 – The Europe Today: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met on May 17 with President of the Republic of Bulgaria Iliana Iotova on the sidelines of the 13th Session of the United Nations World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku.
During the meeting, the Bulgarian leader recalled with satisfaction her previous discussions with President Ilham Aliyev held during the Munich Security Conference in February this year, describing the talks as productive and constructive.
Iliana Iotova described Azerbaijan’s hosting of WUF13 as a significant achievement, especially at a time marked by ongoing wars and global conflicts. She noted that Bulgaria was strongly represented at the forum, including participation by heads of more than 10 Bulgarian municipalities and the mayor of Veliko Tarnovo, the sister city of Shusha.
Highlighting the importance of the World Urban Forum as a key international platform for addressing urbanization challenges, the Bulgarian leader congratulated Azerbaijan on the successful organization of the event. President Ilham Aliyev expressed his appreciation for the congratulations.
The Bulgarian President also emphasized the strategic importance of energy cooperation between Azerbaijan and Bulgaria, particularly underscoring the role of the “Solidarity Ring” project in strengthening regional energy collaboration.
Touching upon humanitarian and cultural ties, Iliana Iotova praised the teaching of the Bulgarian language in Azerbaijan and commended the humanitarian initiatives carried out by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation in Bulgaria. She highlighted the sister-city partnership between Shusha and Veliko Tarnovo, as well as the establishment of a dedicated Shusha Park in the Bulgarian city.
Iliana Iotova further expressed deep gratitude for the support provided by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation in the restoration of the “Trapezitsa” Architectural Museum Reserve in Bulgaria.
During the meeting, both sides noted that the partnership between Azerbaijan and Bulgaria continues to deepen on the basis of mutual respect and trust. Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in the energy sector, including electricity exports, as well as strengthening collaboration in agriculture, tourism, and other areas of mutual interest.
The leaders also exchanged views on constructive cooperation within various international organizations and discussed other issues of importance on the bilateral agenda.
