Kathmandu: The Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDIA) organized the second edition of the AIDIA Distinguished Lecture series in Kathmandu on Thursday. The event featured Elnur Mammadov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, as the keynote speaker, addressing the theme “Foreign Policy of Azerbaijan: Challenges and Opportunities.”
In his welcome remarks, Sunil KC, Founder of AIDIA, emphasized the importance of deepening bilateral ties between Nepal and Azerbaijan. He highlighted potential areas of cooperation such as energy infrastructure, hydropower, and tourism, underlining these as mutually beneficial sectors for both nations. KC also urged both governments to further enhance their current engagements and develop sustainable partnerships.
Dr Anjan Shakya, Member of National Assembly of Nepal and the Coordinator of the Nepal-Azerbaijan Parliamentary Working Group, spoke of the historic resilience shared by the two nations despite their geographical distance. She pointed out the underdeveloped trade relationship, noting significant potential in sectors such as agriculture, textiles, and manufacturing. Shakya emphasized that educational and cultural exchanges remain the most meaningful areas of bilateral engagement and expressed Nepal’s gratitude for the humanitarian assistance provided by Azerbaijan post the 2015 earthquake. She also called for revitalization of the Nepal-Azerbaijan Parliamentary Working Committee and proposed a path forward including direct air connectivity, easier visa processes, and increased business exchanges.
Elchin Huseynli, Non-Resident Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Nepal, reiterated Azerbaijan’s commitment to advancing relations with Nepal through a multi-pronged approach across political, economic, and cultural domains.
Delivering the keynote address, Elnur Mammadov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, outlined Azerbaijan’s current foreign policy priorities, focusing on three key tracks: finalizing a peace agreement, border delimitation, and reopening communication links. He emphasized Azerbaijan’s active participation in international diplomacy, particularly through its Chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), which he described as a vital platform for “Global South” countries. He also noted Azerbaijan’s leadership during the global COVID-19 response and highlighted its role as host of COP29, which drew over 76,000 participants, including 80+ heads of state and government.
Deputy Minister shared the country’s target to generate 30–33 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2027. He also presented ASAN Service, Azerbaijan’s acclaimed e-government platform, which has revolutionized public service delivery, and offered its implementation support to the Government of Nepal. Mammadov is currently on an official visit to Nepal, accompanied by a high-level Azerbaijani delegation—an important milestone in the deepening diplomatic ties between the two countries.
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