The strategic partnership announced between Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom at the European Political Community Summit in Dublin marks an important recognition of the longstanding nature of bilateral relations and their potential to develop into a deeper and more comprehensive partnership, Huseyn Sultanli, Adviser at the Center for Analysis of International Relations and Multiculturalism (AIR Center), told APA.
According to him, Azerbaijan-UK relations have long been strategic in nature, with cooperation dating back to the early years of Azerbaijan's independence.
The expert noted that energy cooperation initially formed the foundation of the partnership, while British companies subsequently expanded their presence in Azerbaijan, particularly through the significant role played by BP.
"The United Kingdom has consistently been Azerbaijan's largest source of foreign direct investment, with more than $39 billion invested to date. This demonstrates the depth and strategic importance of economic cooperation between the two countries," Sultanli said.
He emphasised that although successive British governments have consistently recognised Azerbaijan's importance as a partner, the bilateral agenda has expanded considerably in recent years.
"This development reflects both the momentum generated through established institutional mechanisms, including the Annual Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation, and the growing convergence of the two countries' strategic interests. Both Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom remain strong advocates of international law and the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter," he stated.
Sultanli highlighted that Britain's support for the normalisation of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, based on sovereignty and territorial integrity, has particular significance for Baku.
"The visit of UK Minister of State Stephen Doughty to the region in August 2025 reaffirmed London's position and its vision for regional developments. Azerbaijan attaches particular importance to partners that approach regional issues through the principles of international law, especially given its previous experiences with international actors that did not always demonstrate a fair approach to the former conflict with Armenia," he said.
According to the expert, the emphasis on trust and openness in the Strategic Declaration reflects the fundamental principles that have sustained cooperation between the two countries over the years.
Sultanli also highlighted the growing importance of defence cooperation, noting that developments since August 2025 have demonstrated the determination of both sides to elevate their relationship to a new level.
"The appointment of a resident British defence attaché in Azerbaijan has given additional momentum to cooperation in the defence sector. Regular contacts between representatives of the two countries are now taking place, while cooperation continues to develop in accordance with annual action plans," he noted.
The expert identified regional connectivity, particularly the development of the Middle Corridor, as another promising area of cooperation.
"The United Kingdom has demonstrated considerable interest in supporting the Middle Corridor. British companies possess extensive expertise in transport, logistics and infrastructure development, which corresponds closely with the region's growing demand for connectivity and sustained investment," Sultanli said.
He added that Britain already has experience in providing financial assistance to major regional projects.
"The commitment of the UK's export credit agency to maintaining its engagement with the region, reaffirmed by UK Minister of State Anas Sarwar during his visit to Azerbaijan in October 2026, further illustrates the growing opportunities for cooperation," he stated.
Sultanli also underlined the importance of educational and academic exchanges in strengthening bilateral relations.
"People-to-people contacts have played an essential role in developing the relationship between Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom. British universities remain among the most popular destinations for Azerbaijani students. The commitment to expanding practical cooperation between universities and research institutions is therefore particularly significant and will help sustain the positive momentum in bilateral relations in the coming years," he said.
The expert believes that Azerbaijan-UK relations increasingly demonstrate how countries from different regions can develop an effective and sustainable partnership through consistent political commitment and practical cooperation.
"The recognition of the relationship's considerable potential, combined with growing global geopolitical instability, has encouraged policymakers in both countries to intensify contacts and strengthen the practical and strategic dimensions of their cooperation," Sultanli noted.
He added that the partnership's importance is increasingly extending beyond bilateral relations to broader regional developments.
"As Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom pursue new priorities and objectives, additional opportunities for cooperation will emerge. The United Kingdom is also expanding its engagement with Central Asia and developing closer ties with Türkiye. Against this background, the Azerbaijan-UK strategic partnership has the potential to make a lasting contribution to regional connectivity, economic cooperation and stability beyond the bilateral framework," Sultanli concluded.
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