Azerbaijani, Italian FMs discuss bilateral cooperation

Elmar Mammadyarov and Franco Frattini met in Rome on the second day of the Azeri minister's visit. The two in particular praised the economic and trade relations.

“Italy is number one trade partner of Azerbaijan, and we believe this will continue,” said Frattini.

Mammadyarov emphasized the importance of expanding the bilateral economic cooperation.
The diplomats also discussed regional security, in particular the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Mammadyarov highlighted ongoing peace talks. The Azeri minister said his country accepted the updated Madrid principles, which, he described, as “an appropriate base” for solving the conflict.

“It is impossible to ensure peace and stability in the region unless the Nagorno-Karabakh dispute is solved.”

“Resolution of the conflict will create good opportunities for establishing mutual cooperation and ensuring prosperity in the region,” Mammadyarov added.

Frattini echoed his Azeri counterpart's position, saying Italy backed current talks to find a peaceful solution to the dispute. The ministers also focused on energy security, and the Italian FM praised Azerbaijan`s contribution to Europe`s energy security.

Mammadyarov also raised the Italian minister's awareness of ongoing energy projects in the region.


/AzerTac/