By: Yohannes Fentahun
Ethiopia and Azerbaijan have held the third round of their Bilateral Political Consultation (BPC) in Addis Ababa. The dialogue was led by the Ethiopian State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Misganu Arga, and Azerbaijan's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yalchin Rafiye. The consultation served as a platform to strengthen the growing partnership between the two nations and explore new opportunities for cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, and regional stability.
Ethiopia and Azerbaijan have enjoyed a cordial relationship for years, based on shared interests in regional stability, economic development, and multilateral engagement. Ethiopia, Africa’s second-most populous country, has emerged as a key player in East Africa with a growing market and natural resources. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan, an energy-rich nation at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, has developed increasing influence in both regional and global affairs. The two countries have worked together to enhance ties in areas such as energy, trade, and infrastructure.
The third political consultation emphasized the importance of expanding economic cooperation, particularly in the fields of trade and investment. Ethiopia’s vast agricultural sector and burgeoning manufacturing industry offer opportunities for Azerbaijani businesses, while Ethiopia’s growing demand for energy aligns with Azerbaijan’s energy resources. Both countries aim to build stronger economic partnerships through joint ventures and investments in key sectors like technology and agriculture.
In addition to economic cooperation, the two sides discussed regional security, highlighting their shared concerns about stability in their respective regions. Ethiopia’s leadership role in the Horn of Africa and Azerbaijan’s strategic position in the South Caucasus create opportunities for collaboration on peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts. Both nations also committed to deepening their diplomatic relations through cultural exchanges, educational cooperation, and people-to-people connections.
The consultation concluded with a reaffirmation of both countries’ commitment to multilateral collaboration on global issues such as climate change, peacekeeping, and sustainable development. Both Ethiopia and Azerbaijan are active members of international organizations like the United Nations, where they advocate for peace and development. The third round of consultations marks a significant step forward in fostering a strong and mutually beneficial partnership, positioning both nations to play influential roles on the global stage in the years to come.