Azerbaijani-Turkish intergovernmental commission meets in Baku today

The commission co-chairs met one-on-one firstly and then the delegations exchanged views, APA reports.

Abid Sharifov said that trade turnover was $300mn some years ago but the figure will beat $800mn by this year end.

"Turkish businessmen has to date invested over $1.5bn in economy of Azerbaijan. There exists good potential for expansion of relationship. Developing ties arouse new questions gradually and we should address them through deliberations."

Saying BTC as well as Baku-Arzurum gas pipeline to come on line by this year’s end is important to the both countries from economic and security viewpoints, Mr. Sharifov also underscored that these pipelines will change not only life in Turkey and Azerbaijan but also in the region.

He added that over 3 000 Azerbaijani nationals are studying in Universities as well as military and police schools in Turkey. He also called Turkish Government to participate in development of economy of Nakhchivan AR.

"Relationship between Turkey and Nakhchivan is good now and we once more call on Turkish businessmen to contribute to the economy of Nakhchivan AR. Turkey provides 40-50kilowatt power energy for Nakhchivan yearly."

Turkish Minister of state Mehmet Aydin said that the sides should participate in large projects and the commission should continue deliberations on energy, culture, education, economy and transport.

"Our countries have no problem in the sphere of law. Azerbaijan and Turkey has to date signed over 500 documents."

Previous meeting of the commission took place in Turkey, 2004.