Baku, 16 March 2024 (TDI): Foreign Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov welcomed Foreign Minister of Turkey Hakan Fidan and the Georgian counterpart Ilia Darchiashvili in Baku on March 15.
The three foreign ministers met on the occasion of the Ninth Trilateral Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Türkiye-Azerbaijan-Georgia.
Turkish Foreign Minister’s Remarks
In a press conference held immediately after the meeting, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed gratitude for Azerbaijan’s hospitality.
He also emphasized the significance of the three-nation mechanism in promoting regional stability, peace, and prosperity.
Moreover, he highlighted the humanitarian and economic costs of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
In addition, the Turkish Foreign Minister addressed the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. “The ongoing massacre in Gaza continues to expose the weaknesses of the international system”, he said.
He called for an immediate cease-fire to allow humanitarian aid and emphasized the importance of a two-state solution for lasting peace in the region.
Hakan Fidan also expressed optimism for enhanced cooperation in the region. “There is a real opportunity ahead to transform the South Caucasus into an area of peace, stability, and shared prosperity”, he said.
Azerbaijan’s Perspective
Later, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that the foreign ministers of Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Georgia signed the Baku Declaration on the outcomes of the 9th Trilateral Meeting.
Azerbaijan’s foreign minister spotlighted the fruitful regional economic collaboration between the three countries. Regarding the joint economic projects, he said they are vital for “fostering trade connections between the East and the West.”
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Georgia’s Foreign Minister’s Remarks
Georgia’s Foreign Minister Ilia Darchiashvili, for his part, shared details about “Georgia’s EU membership with both nations” during the meeting. He emphasized that joint collaborative projects among the three countries would enhance their relationship.
“I would like to emphasize that this format is one of the most effective and successful mechanisms of regional cooperation. This platform, particularly in light of current global and regional challenges, allows us to stay informed about the needs of the region,” he said.
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