Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev welcomed Natalia Kiselova, President of the National Assembly of the Republic of Bulgaria, in Baku on June 18. President Aliyev characterized the relations between Azerbaijan and Bulgaria as strategic, underscoring the importance of reciprocal visits and joint projects to enhance bilateral cooperation. The Azerbaijani leader praised the robust political ties and noted the active engagement in the energy sector between the two nations.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev emphasized the significance of Natalia Kiselova's participation in the session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (PABSEC) in Baku. He expressed optimism that her visit would be fruitful and provide a platform to address issues on the bilateral agenda.

Natalia Kiselova expressed her gratitude for the warm reception and praised the development of bilateral relations, highlighting the importance of the Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership between Azerbaijan and Bulgaria. She recalled the restoration of the Trapezitsa Archaeological Museum Reserve in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, with support from the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, acknowledging the appreciation of the Bulgarian people for this contribution. Kiselova conveyed her thanks to Mehriban Aliyeva, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, for the project's successful implementation.

During the meeting, both sides underscored the significance of the PABSEC session in Baku and its role in enhancing interparliamentary cooperation among member states. It was noted that the PABSEC Presidency had transitioned from Azerbaijan to Bulgaria, and Azerbaijan's successful tenure as Chair was recognized.

The discussions also highlighted the effective cooperation and mutual support between Azerbaijan and Bulgaria within international organizations. Both parties emphasized the potential to further strengthen ties in the economic and trade sectors, including renewable energy and other areas.