Azerbaijan is also a valuable partner in the field of defense and security, and this cooperation has never been stronger.
Modern.az reports that the new British Ambassador to our country, Duncan Norman, stated this in an interview with journalists at a press conference.
“While supporting Azerbaijan's potential, we aim to further deepen cooperation in the field of defense through training, closer defense ties, and cooperation opportunities that will benefit from the UK's experience in defense. The UK is proud to be one of the first international partners to support demining activities in Azerbaijan, and we look forward to continuing this support to ensure the safe return of former IDPs.
We work with Azerbaijani law enforcement agencies to combat serious organized crime, including drug trafficking, illegal migration, and cybercrime. The UK is proud to share its experience, while also ensuring that both countries benefit from closer cooperation by leveraging the extensive experience and capabilities of Azerbaijani law enforcement agencies.
Azerbaijan plays an important role in promoting stability in this wider region, and this is very important in terms of laying the foundation for security in the UK,” he said.
The Ambassador noted that the parties share the same opinion on the issue of Ukraine:
“We share the same view on the territorial integrity of Ukraine. The UK will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes. I hope that during my time here, Russia's unprovoked illegal and barbaric invasion of Ukraine, and the great suffering of both the Ukrainian and Russian peoples, will come to an end.
The UK continues to exert pressure on Russia through sanctions, and these sanctions have caused approximately £450 billion in damage to the Russian economy. This figure is equivalent to a two-year budget allocated for Putin's illegal war. Our commitment to Ukraine is long-term: a 100-year partnership. I sincerely welcome Azerbaijan's political and humanitarian support to Ukraine. Azerbaijan plays an invaluable role in supporting Ukraine's and Europe's energy resilience. In addition, President Zelensky also made a historic visit in April. I want to thank Azerbaijan for its support and constructive participation in efforts to build a more peaceful and stable future for the region stretching from Gaza to Iran: this includes the role it has undertaken as a reliable partner in strengthening energy security during the Strait of Hormuz crisis. The UK continues to work with its partners to reopen the strait and wishes for the continuation of the ceasefire and the successful conclusion of peace talks, and also welcomes news of progress in the talks.
A real moment of opportunity has also arisen for Azerbaijan itself. Azerbaijan and Armenia are taking steps towards a sustainable peace based on dialogue and continuous interaction between both sides. This situation has the potential to create new trade, investment, and connectivity opportunities in the wider region.”
