From April 22 to 24, 2025, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, paid a state visit to the People’s Republic of China. This visit marked a significant milestone in the further deepening of relations and strengthening of strategic partnership between the two countries.
During the visit, President Ilham Aliyev and President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping held a bilateral meeting in which the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and China was officially announced. This new phase signifies a stronger foundation for mutual trust and cooperation between the two nations.
In the meeting, the two sides agreed to broaden collaboration within the framework of the “Belt and Road” Initiative. Areas of cooperation included green development, digital economy, intellectual property rights, aerospace industry, transportation and logistics, education, and culture. Over 20 intergovernmental agreements and memorandums were signed to support these areas.
Among the key outcomes of the visit were:
Mutual exemption of visa requirements for holders of ordinary passports;
Expansion of trade in green and high-quality agricultural products;
Enhanced cooperation in the field of renewable energy;
Simplification of customs procedures;
Strengthening the secure and efficient operation of the China–Europe Trans-Caspian Express Corridor.
During the visit, President Ilham Aliyev reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to the “One China” policy, while China expressed its support for Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. This mutual support provides a solid foundation for political cooperation between the two countries.
The agreements signed during the visit and the achieved outcomes demonstrate that Azerbaijan–China relations have entered a new and promising stage. This partnership not only contributes to bilateral development but also supports regional stability and international security.
Nakhchivan – Ürümqi: Sister Cities, Closer Cultures
Azerbaijan–China relations are also developing on the regional level. A key step in this regard was the official establishment of “sister city” status between Nakhchivan (Azerbaijan) and Ürümqi, the capital of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, in April 2025.
This agreement lays the groundwork for deepening cooperation in the fields of history, culture, and trade. Within the framework of this partnership, cultural exchanges, educational programs, international exhibitions, student and business forums, as well as municipal experience-sharing initiatives are planned.
The sister city relationship between Nakhchivan and Ürümqi is significant not only on the municipal level but also in building a cultural bridge between the Turkic-Muslim world and China. Ürümqi, being one of the centers of Turkic-speaking communities in China, shares a cultural and historical affinity with Azerbaijan, strengthening the importance of this partnership.
During the signing of the sister city protocol, it was emphasized that this step is not only a symbol of friendship but also a strategic move to strengthen international relations based on peace, cooperation, and mutual respect.
This initiative is part of Azerbaijan’s broader policy to establish closer ties with the region, and also reflects China’s emphasis on stability and international partnership in the Xinjiang Uyghur region.
