Official Visit of President Ilham Aliyev to China: Deepening the Strategic Partnership

On April 23, 2025, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev arrived in the People’s Republic of China on an official visit and was received with high honors. This visit marked a significant milestone in enhancing bilateral relations and further strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Ceremonial Welcome and Official Talks

A ceremonial reception was held in Beijing on a square decorated with the national flags of both countries. President Aliyev was welcomed by President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping, First Lady Peng Liyuan, and other senior officials. Following the official welcoming ceremony and the presentation of delegations, bilateral talks were held between the two leaders.

During the discussions, a wide range of issues related to bilateral cooperation were addressed. President Xi commended Azerbaijan’s achievements under the leadership of President Aliyev and emphasized the strategic importance of the relationship between the two nations.

Economic Cooperation and Trade Growth

Particular attention was paid to the dynamic development of economic and trade relations.

In 2024, the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and China increased by 20%, reaching USD 3.7 billion. In the first quarter of 2025, bilateral trade continued to grow, showing an almost 40% increase.

Azerbaijan remains China’s leading trade partner in the region. China plays a key role as both an importer from Azerbaijan and a strategic partner in the oil and gas sector, as well as in the field of renewable energy.

Agreements and Memorandums Signed

During the visit, a number of important agreements and memorandums were signed, opening new opportunities for cooperation. Some of the key documents:

1. Memorandum on Transport Cooperation (Middle Corridor)

Important issues related to transport and logistics routes, including the Middle Corridor, were also discussed. This route continues to gain popularity, and both countries expressed their intention to increase cargo transportation volumes through this route, which is of strategic importance for both sides, as well as for the entire region.

The signed memorandum emphasizes the importance of developing transport and logistics routes between Azerbaijan and China, in particular through the Middle Corridor.

Key provisions:

• Increasing freight volumes along the Middle Corridor.
• Development of infrastructure, including railways, seaports, and highways.
• Establishment of efficient logistics chains to enhance trade connectivity.

2. Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption

This agreement aims to facilitate the movement of citizens between the two countries and promote stronger people-to-people, business, and cultural ties.

Key points:

• Citizens of both countries may stay in the other country visa-free for up to 30 days.
• Enhanced opportunities for business, academic, and cultural exchanges.

3. Memorandum on Cooperation in Humanitarian Demining.

This document demonstrates China’s support in the demining of conflict-affected areas in Azerbaijan.

Key points:

• Provision of technical equipment for demining operations.
• Training of Azerbaijani demining specialists.
• Implementation of joint projects for the safe restoration of liberated territories.

4. Protocol on Cultural Cooperation (2025–2029).

This protocol aims to strengthen cultural ties and mutual understanding between the peoples of both countries.

Key points:

• Organization of cultural events, including exhibitions, festivals, and workshops.
• Development of educational initiatives, including academic exchanges.
• Cooperation in preserving cultural heritage.

5. Memorandum on Cooperation in Space Technologies.

Given China’s growing technological capabilities, this memorandum creates new opportunities for high-tech collaboration.

Key points:

• Joint space initiatives and exchange of technological expertise.
• Collaborative scientific research in satellite technology and environmental monitoring.

6. Agreement on Cooperation in the Digital Economy

This agreement underscores the importance of digitalization and the development of joint initiatives in digital infrastructure.

Key points:

• Establishment of working groups for knowledge sharing in digital technologies.
• Joint projects in e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and blockchain.
• Improvement of digital connectivity and data security.

7. Energy Cooperation Agreement, Including Renewables

This agreement supports the development of bilateral energy cooperation, particularly in the field of renewable energy.

Key points:

• Joint projects in solar and wind energy.
• Exchange of experience and technologies for sustainable energy solutions.
• Cooperation in energy efficiency and conservation.

Prospects for bilateral relations and key outcomes of the visit

The visit reaffirmed the growing importance of Azerbaijan-China cooperation on the global stage. Both countries expressed mutual support for one another’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and pledged to further strengthen collaboration within international platforms such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

The signing of the Joint Statement on the Establishment of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership was the key outcome of the visit, consolidating a high level of cooperation. Discussions also focused on economic development, trade, transportation and logistics, energy, and environmental issues.

In conclusion, the agreements signed during the visit cover critical sectors such as economy, culture, energy, space technologies, and transport. They represent a significant step forward in the development of a comprehensive strategic partnership that will not only foster mutual understanding and prosperity but also enhance the global standing of both countries.