Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Receives his Azerbaijani Counterpart to Discuss Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Bagdad, May 7, 2025- Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mr. Fuad Hussein, received Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mr. Jeyhun Bayramov, and his accompanying delegation, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Baghdad.

During a joint meeting chaired by both foreign ministers, the two delegations discussed the strong and growing relations  between Iraq and Azerbaijan. The talks focused on enhancing cooperation in key areas such as economic and trade relations—particularly gas imports, the expansion of air travel, and encouraging Azerbaijani investment in Iraq.

The discussions also explored opportunities for collaboration in education, including the expansion of scholarship programs. Both sides exchanged views on regional and international developments, reaffirming their shared commitment to resolving conflicts through peaceful means and supporting global efforts to achieve stability.

As part of the visit, Ambassador Bassem Hattab, Dean of the Iraqi Foreign Service Institute, and Ambassador Hafiz Pashayev signed a memorandum of understanding between the Institute and Azerbaijan’s ADA University, aimed at fostering academic and diplomatic cooperation.

In a joint press conference, Minister Fuad Hussein appreciated Azerbaijan’s constructive regional and international role, and welcomed the progress in peace negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, in addition the Minister expressed hope for a peaceful resolution to outstanding issues. 

Additionally Minister Hussein underscored the importance of addressing differences between India and Pakistan, warning of the risks posed by ongoing tensions on regional security.

Minister Bayramov highlighted the historic ties between Iraq and Azerbaijan and the mutual support the two countries enjoy within the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. As well he emphasized the role of the Iraq-Azerbaijan Business Council in supporting private sector and noted the exchange of views on several regional and global issues, including the situations in Gaza, Syria, and the tension between India and Pakistan.