Strengthening UAE-Azerbaijan Relations with Strategic Partnership

Post by : Mara Rahim

In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations, Saeed Al Hajeri, UAE Minister of State, and Yalchin Rafiyev, Azerbaijan’s Deputy Foreign Minister, co-chaired the inaugural meeting of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Committee in Abu Dhabi. Senior representatives from both nations participated, marking a pivotal moment for structured and long-lasting cooperation between the UAE and Azerbaijan.

The inception of this Strategic Partnership Committee aims to facilitate methodical progress in priority sectors. By providing a framework, both countries aim to streamline joint initiatives, ensuring the fulfillment of their strategic objectives while enhancing cooperation across various domains.

During discussions, key milestones since 2025 that have fortified the UAE-Azerbaijan relationship were highlighted, such as the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the establishment of a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperation Partnership. High-level exchanges, including President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s visit to Azerbaijan in September 2025 and President Ilham Aliyev's trip to the UAE in July 2025, further solidified their ties.

The committee agreed to establish subcommittees focusing on five critical areas: politics and diplomacy, economic collaboration, defense, humanitarian initiatives (including education and cultural exchange), and energy sustainability. These bodies will manage specific projects, monitor outcomes, and ensure effective execution of the collaborative plans over the upcoming years.

Additionally, a five-year strategic roadmap for cooperation was deliberated, identifying numerous joint priority initiatives across sectors. These projects target economic enhancement, defense synergy, cultural exchanges, and advancements in sustainable energy and technology, serving as a structured guide for systematic implementation.

Minister Saeed Al Hajeri articulated that the committee exemplifies the strengthening partnership between the UAE and Azerbaijan, underscoring their dedication to shared objectives and advancing collaboration in mutually beneficial areas. The committee provides an essential platform for synchronized endeavors, ensuring prolonged advantages for both nations.

The meeting wrapped up with an agreement to hold the next round in Baku, further reflecting the commitment of both nations to continuous dialogue and partnership. The UAE delegation comprised officials from various ministries, including Defense, Justice, Economy, and Climate Change, alongside representatives from key organizations like AD Ports and Masdar.

This inaugural session of the UAE-Azerbaijan Strategic Partnership Committee marks a noteworthy development in their bilateral relations. Through targeted subcommittees, a comprehensive five-year roadmap, and an array of joint initiatives, the two nations aim to elevate collaboration in the realms of economy, defense, energy, culture, and humanitarian efforts—demonstrating their resolve for strategic alliance and mutual advancement.