Azerbaijan welcomed President Umaro Moktar Sissoko Embaló of Guinea-Bissau, marking a significant advancement in diplomatic and economic relations. This visit highlights Azerbaijan’s growing role in Africa’s energy and development sectors despite Guinea-Bissau’s economic challenges. Both countries emphasize military and economic cooperation, showcasing a commitment to sustainable partnership in various key areas.
On February 27, President Umaro Moktar Sissoko Embaló of Guinea-Bissau arrived in Azerbaijan, marking a significant step in Azerbaijan’s growing diplomatic and economic relations with Africa. This visit signifies Azerbaijan’s aim to establish itself as an influential partner in key sectors such as energy, security, and development across the continent. Despite Guinea-Bissau’s status as one of the poorest nations, Azerbaijan’s interest in this collaboration emphasizes the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships.
President Embaló’s timing is particularly noteworthy as it closely follows his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where rare earth metals were discussed—an area of increasing geopolitical interest. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov mentioned that Russian companies are keen on mining projects, which likely aligns with Azerbaijan’s interests as it recently joined the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme aimed at preventing the funding of armed groups in West Africa.
During a welcome address, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev expressed the historic value of Embaló’s visit, stating that it opens avenues to enhance bilateral relations. He emphasized the importance of bilateral support within international organizations such as the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. This partnership is not just ceremonial; it involves active collaboration on pressing global issues.
Relations between Azerbaijan and Guinea-Bissau have thrived through international institutions, with Guinea-Bissau supporting Azerbaijan in various UN resolutions. Furthermore, Azerbaijan contributed $100,000 to Guinea-Bissau via the World Health Organization in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This cooperation points towards a future filled with opportunities for collaboration across diverse sectors such as health, education, and military.
In discussing economic collaboration, President Aliyev confirmed Azerbaijan’s intent to explore investment opportunities in Guinea-Bissau, particularly in areas such as defense. During the visit, Embaló is expected to tour an Azerbaijani military facility and participate in discussions about the country’s defense initiatives, highlighting a growing defense sector collaboration.
Guinea-Bissau, facing numerous governance challenges, has welcomed Azerbaijan’s assistance and involvement, particularly in terms of security and military support. President Embaló asserted that this visit is intended to rejuvenate cooperation in various sectors and solidify their partnership in international dialogue regarding mutual interests.
Azerbaijan’s foreign policy has increasingly targeted African nations since its independence. From 1992 to 2012, Azerbaijan established diplomatic relations with various African countries, enhancing engagement in trade, energy, and investments. Specifically, Azerbaijan’s cooperation with African nations in trading energy products and potentially mining represents a strategic pivot towards securing resources essential for economic development.
In recent developments, Azerbaijan’s trade with African countries has surged, reaching an impressive $335.79 million, with Azerbaijani exports significantly increasing. Guinea-Bissau has emerged as a key player among these partnerships, with ongoing diplomatic missions and discussions aimed at solidifying their relationship.
The sequence of President Embaló’s visits to both Moscow and Baku reflects evolving geopolitical dynamics in Africa, especially in relation to rare earth resources. Azerbaijan’s strategy in Africa, particularly its cooperation with Guinea-Bissau, may well serve as a model for future engagements, encompassing diverse sectors and fostering sustainable development. The statement from President Embaló, “We are here today to renew our cooperation,” highlights the commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
The visit of Guinea-Bissau’s President to Azerbaijan marks a pivotal moment for both nations, indicating a leap towards enhanced diplomatic and economic cooperation. The discussions illuminate shared interests in energy, security, and mutual support within international frameworks. With both countries poised to cultivate this relationship, Azerbaijan’s transition towards robust engagement with African nations may have profound geopolitical implications. Continuous collaboration could establish a template for future partnerships across the continent.
Original Source: www.azernews.az
