Bob Blackman, a member of the British Parliament and chairman of the British-Azerbaijani Inter-Parliamentary Working Group, is on a visit to Azerbaijan. Bob Blackman will meet with Sahiba Gafarova, Speaker of the Milli Majlis, today, and with Fariz Ismayilzade, Chairman of the Azerbaijan-UK Inter-Parliamentary Working Group, tomorrow.
Before his meetings, Bob Blackman answered several questions from Modern.az.
We present the interview with the British parliamentarian:
- How do you assess the current level of inter-parliamentary relations between Great Britain and Azerbaijan? In your opinion, what additional steps can be taken to further strengthen cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries?
- The current situation is that general elections were held in Great Britain in 2024, and the composition of the parliament was largely renewed. As a result, a record number of new deputies were elected. This means that most of them have no experience in relations with Azerbaijan. First of all, it is necessary to understand the strategic importance of Azerbaijan, and then to understand why we should build strong relations with it. The same situation, to some extent, occurred in Azerbaijan. In the last parliamentary elections, more new deputies were elected compared to the previous ones. Therefore, the main issue is to reshape these friendly relations.
Currently, we are rebuilding this friendship. After the general elections held two years ago, we faced some difficulties in terms of reforming the friendship group and attracting new members. Some of the individuals who previously participated in this work, especially those represented in the House of Lords, continue their activities. However, it has not been easy to involve new deputies in this work. Usually, only deputies whose constituencies or previous professional activities are related to the oil and gas sector show interest in this issue. What we are doing now is to identify new people, involve them in this process, and thereby further expand friendly relations between our countries.
- Trade turnover between Great Britain and Azerbaijan has increased in recent years. Do you consider the existing trade volume satisfactory, or do you think there is still great potential for expansion in this area?
- There is always an opportunity for development and expansion when there is cooperation between two friendly countries that can offer important products to each other. Oil and gas are extremely important for Azerbaijan. At the same time, the use of oil and gas is of great importance for us. This is not just about raw materials. For example, investments in the Caspian Sea, pipelines, technologies, and generally the capabilities required for oil and gas production also play an important role. For this reason, it is of great importance that we provide this experience and knowledge. Azerbaijan's investments in Great Britain are carried out in various forms. However, our main advantage is the service sector. This includes both the financial sector, legal services, and other professional capabilities. In this regard, it is important to maintain our relations and develop them for the benefit of both countries. As you mentioned, we have managed to continue this friendship and develop the economies of both countries.
In addition, Azerbaijan's focus on renewable energy sources, the development of new forms of economic cooperation, and the creation of virtually tax-free economic zones increase the opportunities for British companies to invest in Azerbaijan. This serves both to create new jobs in Azerbaijan and to strengthen economic ties with Great Britain.
Currently, cooperation continues steadily. However, there are huge opportunities for investment. As far as I know, Azerbaijan is already showing great interest not only in the oil and gas and energy sectors but also in computer technologies, artificial intelligence, and agriculture. Azerbaijan's advantage is that the country has access to the Caspian Sea and vast land areas that can be developed for agriculture. One of the main problems is water. We can help in the field of desalination of seawater through our technologies. This would allow growing more agricultural products and keeping more livestock. As a result, both Azerbaijan's food security would be strengthened, and a contribution would be made to Europe's food supply.
- As you know, Azerbaijan's role in the Middle Corridor is growing. To what extent do you think this development aligns with Great Britain's strategic and economic interests?
- Yes. I believe that the construction of the gas pipeline was a very bold decision, and I have strongly supported this project. A 3500-kilometer pipeline is not only a huge investment but also a great risk in terms of security. Because as a result of terrorist acts, activity can be disrupted at any point of that pipeline. Therefore, this project carried a very high risk. But now we are seeing the fruits of that investment. Europe, especially other parts of the continent, is no longer as dependent on Russian energy supplies as before. If this project had not been implemented, I believe that Europe would be facing very serious problems today. This clearly shows how important investment is for the long-term perspective. At the same time, I believe that the strategic importance of the air corridor passing over Azerbaijan is not sufficiently appreciated. Due to the war in Ukraine, commercial flights are not carried out over Russia. On the other hand, the situation in the Middle East also makes it difficult for airlines to use those routes. This also affects flights to India, Australia, New Zealand, and other destinations. All this is of great importance. In fact, Azerbaijan's location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia once again demonstrates its strategic importance and how vital relations between our countries are. We have been investing in these relations for almost a hundred years, and this cooperation is once again beginning to bear fruit today.
- How do you assess the activities of the Azerbaijani community living in Great Britain?
- The Azerbaijani community is very active. Moreover, we have always cooperated with very professional ambassadors who have contributed to the development of these relations. We have also used the opportunity for the Azerbaijani community to come to Parliament to celebrate their achievements. Of course, before the Karabakh war, we constantly brought up the massacres that occurred, as well as the tragedies related to the forced displacement of one and a half million Azerbaijanis as a result of the first war in the early 1990s. Now the war is over. Relations with Armenia are developing in a more peaceful direction. This allows for the reconstruction of Karabakh. At the same time, in Great Britain, we remind people that what happened in the past should not be forgotten. A large number of young people from Azerbaijan have come to Great Britain to study, have worked here, and continue to work. We have very good restaurants that present Azerbaijani cuisine. As we know, Azerbaijani cuisine is magnificent. This gives us the opportunity to get to know that culture closely. In addition, there is cooperation in industry and other investment areas. The experience from Azerbaijan has played a very important role in the projects we have carried out in the North Sea. In this regard, the ties between Scotland and Azerbaijan are of great importance. A fairly large Azerbaijani diaspora also lives in London. There are especially many students who come to study. They sometimes come not for bachelor's degrees, but for master's or other programs. They are always warmly welcomed, and this serves to further strengthen friendly relations between our countries.
- Very interesting. Which Azerbaijani dish do you like the most?
- Oh, honestly... Yesterday I ate fried eggplant for the first time. Usually, I didn't like eggplant when it was cooked, but this time it was fried and very tasty. I had never tasted such a dish before. In general, I have been visiting Azerbaijan for 16 years now. Therefore, I am well acquainted with Azerbaijani cuisine. I have already gotten used to the extremely rich tables offered here. You can never leave the table hungry in Azerbaijan, and that is really wonderful. Your cuisine is magnificent. Each of the different dishes you prepare is unique, and that is one of its most beautiful aspects. And your fruits and vegetables are simply magnificent. They are much tastier than what we eat in Great Britain.
- Mr. Blackman, what are your observations regarding the integration of Azerbaijanis living in Great Britain into British society? How do you assess their integration?
- I think that the fact that the vast majority of people in Azerbaijan learn English is the first and most important advantage in this process. When they come to Great Britain, they adapt more easily to society because they can speak English fluently. Of course, people usually communicate more with their friends and compatriots. However, I believe that Azerbaijanis have integrated into our society in such a way that there is no special neighborhood in London or any other region of Great Britain where you can say, "all Azerbaijanis live here." They are spread across different regions of the country. This is a positive thing. Because in this way, people integrate not only within their own communities but also with the local population. I think this is a healthy approach. Thus, Azerbaijanis living in different parts of the country establish closer ties with local communities, which strengthens integration.
- In which areas do Azerbaijani specialists currently operate the most? Business, science and education, healthcare, finance, information technologies, publishing, or other fields?
- Almost all of the listed areas. Yes, literally, that's the situation. Azerbaijanis are very active. Because there are strong universities in Azerbaijan, and students who come to Great Britain can fully benefit from the education they receive here because they know English well before starting their studies. We also have cooperation in education with other countries. Those countries send their students to Great Britain. However, if they do not know English well enough, it is very difficult for them to fully benefit from their education. In this regard, Azerbaijanis are in a superior position. Also, as I mentioned, Azerbaijanis are lively people. If I say so, it will probably be correct. They know how to not only work but also enjoy the existing social opportunities.
- In your opinion, what contribution does the Azerbaijani diaspora make to strengthening economic, cultural, educational, and humanitarian ties between Great Britain and Azerbaijan?
- This is extremely important. We call this a "living bridge" between the two countries. On one side, there are people living in Azerbaijan, and on the other side, there are people who come from Azerbaijan to Great Britain and develop friendly relations here. I have also met with Britons living in Azerbaijan during these few days. They have made Azerbaijan their home. They have been very warmly welcomed here, have stayed, and continue their business activities. This is a very positive thing. Because once such relations are established, full cooperation is formed, and this cooperation is continuous. Long-term friendship and cooperation are extremely important. In addition, Azerbaijan is a very safe country. The crime rate here is very low. As we know, the situation is not like this in some other countries. I think we can learn a lot from Azerbaijan's experience, especially Baku's. When I first came to Baku, the city was not as developed as it is now. Today, the development of new residential complexes, recreation areas, and various stadiums built for the European Games shows that it is possible to develop the city while preserving its architecture and cultural heritage. I came here again after two or three years and I still see new constructions continuing. However, this development is carried out in a way that is consistent with the overall appearance of the city. In Great Britain, sometimes buildings are built that you look at and say: "There is no aesthetic aspect in this architecture." In this regard, we have a lot to learn from Azerbaijan. I consider this very important. Even buildings made of glass differ from each other. Each of them has a unique appearance and is both visually attractive and functional for the people living or working there.
- Have you had the opportunity to meet with representatives of the Azerbaijani diaspora or Azerbaijani organizations operating in Great Britain? If so, what issues do they mostly raise in your meetings?
- The most frequently raised issue is always the visa issue and opportunities to come to Great Britain. In fact, this is the main topic raised by representatives of almost all countries we meet with. Another important point that caught my attention regarding Azerbaijanis is that they are self-sufficient people. People coming from Azerbaijan to Great Britain do not depend on social benefits. They come either to work or to study and live on their knowledge and skills. This is extremely positive. Unfortunately, people coming from some other countries rely on social assistance. However, there is no such situation with the Azerbaijani community. In addition, we always celebrate Azerbaijani culture, music, and various cultural events. The preservation of Azerbaijani culture and national identity helps people feel at home even when they are abroad. At the same time, this enriches the cultural life of Great Britain. I think this is one of Great Britain's greatest advantages. Especially in London, it is possible to get acquainted with the cultures of various peoples of the world without leaving the country. Then, when you visit that country, that culture is no longer completely alien to you. I consider this a very positive thing.
- Mr. Blackman, Prime Minister Keir Starmer's resignation is regarded by some observers as the beginning of a new political stage in Great Britain. How do you assess this process? Do you expect the new government to make any changes in its policy towards Azerbaijan or the South Caucasus in general?
- One of the main problems is that Keir Starmer has been the most unpopular prime minister of our country to date. Therefore, he was forced to resign by his own party. Because his popularity was extremely low. One could even say that people hated him. In addition, the Labour Party and the government suffered unprecedented heavy defeats in local elections in their history. As a result, the Labour Party decided to elect a leader from outside parliament, a person who had been the mayor of Greater Manchester. Greater Manchester, of course, is a large urban agglomeration. However, he has no experience in foreign policy, diplomacy, defense, international cooperation, NATO, the United Nations, the European Union, and relations with Azerbaijan. He has not been tested in these areas, has no experience, and his position is unknown. Because he has made almost no statements regarding foreign policy to date. Therefore, we have to wait and see. Since relations between Great Britain and Azerbaijan are strong enough, the worst-case scenario might be that relations continue as they are. That is, existing opportunities and advantages may not be fully utilized. I believe that the new prime minister, Andy Burnham, will focus more on domestic policy than on international issues. In fact, one of the main criticisms directed at Keir Starmer was precisely that he paid more attention to international issues instead of domestic problems. So we will wait and see. Probably by the end of today, it will be announced that he has been elected leader of the Labour Party. According to the current system, there is no other candidate who could rival him. After that, we will see what policy he will pursue. Currently, it is not possible to say exactly what course he will choose regarding both foreign policy and domestic policy.
- Let's move on to another topic. The process of restoration and reconstruction of Karabakh is being carried out by the Azerbaijani government. How do you assess this process?
- The most important point is that after the territories were liberated, I made one of my first visits to Karabakh. There we saw with our own eyes the scale of the destruction and observed what opportunities this created for reconstruction. At the same time, we also saw how an international airport near Karabakh was built in a short time. We were even among the first passengers to fly from that airport to Baku. So, opportunities exist. During one of our other visits, we got acquainted with mine clearance work. We saw the mines and the brave people who literally defused them by hand. This work continues. As the lands are cleared of mines, people will be able to use those areas for agricultural purposes. That was the real goal. However, as long as there are mines in the area, it is very difficult to use those lands. This creates a great opportunity. Another important issue is that as a result of Armenia's illegal occupation, one and a half million people were forced to leave their native lands. I believe that one of the main tasks facing the Azerbaijani government is to encourage people to return. Thus, they will not only reclaim their lands but also use those lands for their previous purpose and contribute to the development of new industries. This is indeed a very big job.
- As you know, some countries support the process of Karabakh's restoration. I would like to know if Great Britain also intends to contribute in this direction?
- I believe that Great Britain should cooperate more closely with Azerbaijan in terms of its capabilities. We have highly qualified specialists in mine clearance, and they have been active in this field. At the same time, we have specialists with extensive experience in reconstruction. As you know, British architects are already participating in some reconstruction projects. Of course, there is enough local workforce to carry out construction work. The main need is for professional knowledge and experience in architecture, design, and engineering. It is in this direction that we can make a greater contribution. At the same time, we must send strong messages about promoting friendly relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Thus, stable relations can be formed between the two countries, and the long-standing confrontation can be eliminated. This is extremely important. Unfortunately, in Great Britain, as in other countries of the world, a strong Armenian lobby operates. One of the problems is that the Armenian lobby often tries to escalate relations. They sometimes even take a tougher stance than the current government of Armenia. They believe that maintaining hostility and obstacles serves Armenia's interests. I, on the other hand, think the exact opposite. If we can remove these obstacles and develop friendly relations between the two countries, it will be economically beneficial for both Armenia and Azerbaijan. In addition, this can help to completely end the confrontation and reduce Russia's influence in the region. Thus, both countries can develop more comfortably. In my opinion, Great Britain should promote precisely this. Unfortunately, I am not sure that enough is being done in this regard at the moment. But I believe that the future lies precisely in this direction.
- Finally, what message would you like to give to Azerbaijanis living in Great Britain, as well as to Azerbaijani youth who want to study, work, or build a career in Great Britain in the future?
- First of all, I would like to say that there are no restrictions on the number of students from Azerbaijan who want to study in Great Britain. Any number of students can study in Great Britain. I would advise them to choose specialties that will help them develop their businesses and careers when they return to Azerbaijan in the future. To the Azerbaijani diaspora living in Great Britain, I want to say that you are always welcome here. Consider yourselves an integral part of Great Britain. You are our friends. You do valuable work for our country and make an important contribution to our economy. Please continue to take advantage of the opportunities of being in Great Britain and further develop friendly relations between our countries.
