Azernews.Az

Qabil Ashirov

Read more

In recent years, Azerbaijan-China relations have undergone a significant transformation, evolving into a strategic partnership with deepening cooperation across multiple sectors. The signing of the Declaration on Strategic Partnership between the two countries stands as a landmark achievement, highlighting the maturity of bilateral ties and underscoring a shared vision for long-term collaboration. As the global geopolitical landscape shifts and the balance of power moves increasingly toward Asia, Azerbaijan’s growing engagement with China is not only timely but also essential.

One of the most promising aspects of this partnership lies in the economic and technological spheres. Azerbaijan’s decision to work actively with Chinese companies in areas like green public transport and renewable energy is a clear indicator of the country’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

As the president Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said: ‘We actively work now with Chinese companies. We invited them to be our strategic partners in different areas, including the green energy. I would name that their companies have been selected as our partners in the manufacturing of green public transportation vehicles. The first production is expected this year.’

The deployment of the first electric buses produced by a Chinese companies in Azerbaijan marks a tangible step toward greener urban mobility. In a world that is rapidly moving toward decarbonization, such initiatives not only benefit the environment but also enhance Azerbaijan’s technological capacity and industrial diversification.

Equally important is the growing role of Chinese solar panel producers in Azerbaijan’s energy sector. These panels, currently used in power stations funded by investments from other countries, represent a smart intersection of global collaboration and national development. Azerbaijan’s efforts to attract direct investment from China into its green energy projects point to a forward-looking energy policy—one that aligns with both the global energy transition and Azerbaijan’s ambition to become a regional leader in renewables. As the President Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said: ‘…they are also suppliers of solar panels, which are being installed in Azerbaijan with the investments from other countries. Also we are in the phase of negotiations with some Chinese companies with respect to direct investments in green energy."

Beyond economic ties, the initiation of dialogue on defense cooperation introduces a new dimension to bilateral relations. Azerbaijan’s interest in expanding the geography of its defense procurement and establishing joint production facilities reflects a strategic recalibration. Engaging with China in this area could help diversify Azerbaijan’s defense capabilities, reduce dependency on traditional suppliers, and introduce new technologies into the local defense industry. While defense cooperation remains a sensitive and complex issue, careful diplomacy and mutual understanding could yield meaningful benefits.

Another cornerstone of Azerbaijan-China relations is connectivity. As a long-time supporter of China’s "Belt and Road" Initiative (BRI), Azerbaijan plays a vital role in the development of the Middle Corridor, or the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route. This corridor offers a faster, safer, and more sustainable route for goods traveling from China to Europe, bypassing congested or unstable regions. With new possibilities emerging for cargo to transit through the Zangazur and Zangilan regions, Azerbaijan is positioning itself as a logistics hub at the crossroads of East and West. This development is not only commercially significant but also geopolitically strategic.

It is worth noting take active part in the realization on the One Belt One Road initiative. The support of Azerbaijan in the initiative is palpable. Like Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev emphasized: "the Middle Corridor; One Belt One Road Initiative of President Xi Jinping, which, as I said, in Europe they want to call it the Global Gateway. Frankly speaking, I don't know what it means, but the One Belt One Road is a project, which we have supported from the very beginning - not only publicly supported but also invested in it. We built the biggest seaport on the Caspian shore. We are now manufacturing six vessels at our shipyard. Our shipyard is now fully packed with orders. We upgraded our railroad and even invested additional funds to increase the capacity of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railroad on Georgian territory. So, its capacity is now 5 million tons. We think that part of the cargo from China will also go through Zangazur, through the Zangilan road."

Moreover, Azerbaijan’s active participation in the Global South and its leadership of the Non-Aligned Movement for four consecutive years speak volumes about its growing international stature. China’s role as a fellow member in this movement enhances the foundation for cooperation on global governance issues, equitable development, and multilateralism. The two countries share common perspectives on sovereignty, non-interference, and the need for a more inclusive international order. In this context, the Azerbaijan-China relationship becomes more than a bilateral affair—it becomes a model for how middle powers can collaborate effectively in a multipolar world.

Despite these advances, it is important to acknowledge the challenges that come with engaging a global power like China. Issues of trade imbalance, technological dependency, and the need for transparent investment practices are areas that must be carefully managed. Azerbaijan must ensure that its engagement with China serves its long-term national interests and supports local economic development. Strengthening institutional capacity, improving legal frameworks for foreign investment, and maintaining strategic autonomy will be key to maximizing the benefits of this partnership.

In conclusion, the Azerbaijan-China relationship has grown into a robust and multidimensional partnership with far-reaching implications. From green energy to defense, from trade to global diplomacy, the scope of cooperation is impressive and expanding. As the world continues to face complex challenges—from climate change to supply chain disruptions—strong, forward-thinking partnerships like this one offer a path to shared prosperity and resilience. Azerbaijan has every reason to continue nurturing and expanding its ties with China, a partner that increasingly plays a central role in shaping the global future.