Intensify economic cooperation between Serbia and Azerbaijan

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Serbia, Nikola Selaković, met with the Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan, Mikayil Jabbarov, in Baku.

Minister Selaković stated that bilateral relations are very good, that they are characterized by meaningful political and friendly ties and mutual support for territorial integrity and sovereignty, as well as that there is a significant space and potential for improving economic cooperation.

Selaković expressed his belief that in the coming period, the political dialogue at the high and highest level will be further intensified, and thus the strategic relations between the two countries will become more dynamic and better. In that context, according to him, the upcoming visit of President Aliyev to Serbia in October will be historic in the sense of political cooperation, but also an impetus for strengthening economic relations.

The interlocutors discussed the improvement of economic cooperation and agreed that there are potentials for its strengthening in numerous areas, especially agriculture, construction, transport, energy, and information technology.

Selaković pointed out that our country has a surplus in trade with Azerbaijan, expressing confidence that the level of exchange will continue to grow, but also assessed that it is necessary to work on strengthening contacts between businessmen of the two countries. He believes that visa liberalization and a direct Belgrade-Baku flight would greatly encourage the strengthening of economic cooperation.

On this occasion, Selaković called on Azerbaijani businessmen to invest in the Serbian economy and said that previous experiences with foreign investors show that the Government of Serbia is a reliable and good partner.

The head of Serbian diplomacy thanked for the invitation of Azerbaijani friends and partners to Serbian companies to participate in the reconstruction in post-conflict areas in that country, saying that Serbian businessmen had expressed interest, and that he expected that the response would be good, according to the capacities of our economy.

Also, the Minister emphasized that Serbia attaches great importance to the work of the Intergovernmental Commission for Trade and Economic Cooperation, and that we are ready to do everything in our power to make its work tangible and useful for the citizens of our countries. He expressed satisfaction that its sixth session will be held tomorrow, followed by a business forum with the participation of Serbian and Azerbaijani businessmen, expecting that this is a chance to achieve good and visible results and that concrete agreements will be reached on that occasion.