Ignazio Cassis: Azerbaijan is an important partner of Switzerland and a key link between Europe and Asia
Azerbaijan is an important partner of Switzerland in the South Caucasus and a key link between Europe and Asia, while its role as a regional hub continues to grow.
This was stated in an interview with AZERTAC by Ignazio Cassis, member of the Federal Council of Switzerland and head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs.
"Switzerland's recognition of Azerbaijan's independence laid the foundation for close and long-term relations between our countries.
My visit is an excellent opportunity to deepen our political dialogue, strengthen economic cooperation and discuss regional and international issues of mutual interest. As the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations approaches, we seek to build on the successes already achieved and to further strengthen our partnership," Cassis said.
There are close and dynamically developing relations between Switzerland and Azerbaijan, based on regular political dialogue, the federal minister noted. The numerous high-level visits and exchanges that have taken place between our countries over the years demonstrate how strong and sustainable these relations are, he added.
The progress achieved on the path to peace with Armenia creates new opportunities for the entire region, including in terms of stability and economic cooperation, the minister also noted.
According to the minister, the cooperation of the two countries within the framework of the Bretton Woods institutions is a special area of relations. "Azerbaijan's membership in the Swiss-led group contributes to building trust and creates conditions for regular political dialogue, policy coordination and technical cooperation," he noted.
Speaking about economic cooperation, Cassis noted that in addition to the energy sector, whose volume has grown significantly in recent years, Switzerland is an important destination for Azerbaijani exports. "We see significant potential for the further development of trade and investment, especially in sectors that support Azerbaijan's economic diversification and innovative development," the minister said.
According to him, in the current geopolitical context, the diversification of energy sources and supply routes is of the utmost importance for Europe's security and resilience.
"Azerbaijan is a reliable energy partner, playing an important role in strengthening Europe's energy security. Its contribution not only helps reduce dependence on a single supplier, but also ensures a more stable and diversified energy supply.
Switzerland highly values Azerbaijan's constructive role and its commitment to reliable energy cooperation with Europe," Cassis stated.
The head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs also stated that Switzerland welcomes the progress achieved on the path to peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia, as well as the political will shown by both sides to overcome a conflict that has brought suffering for many years.
"I say this as the foreign minister of Switzerland and at the same time as the acting chairman of the OSCE. During my upcoming visit, I will convey the same message to Yerevan as well. Switzerland stands for supporting dialogue and building trust. In 2022, talks between the foreign ministers of the two countries took place in Geneva, and we are ready to support steps toward normalization whenever this may be useful.
The resumption of trade, transport links and other confidence-building measures inspires hope. We expect both sides to continue moving toward a lasting peace that will benefit the peoples of both countries," he stated.
