Zelensky discusses defense and economic cooperation with Azerbaijan’s FM

On Thursday, August 6, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov paid Ukraine a visit, marking his first official trip to the country since the onset of the full-scale Russian invasion. During his stay, he received a warm welcome from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who expressed deep gratitude for Azerbaijan's continued support in defending Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as for the energy, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic dialogue provided.

Zelensky provided Bayramov with a comprehensive briefing on ongoing Russian strikes within Ukraine, the current state of affairs in the Black Sea, and Russia's blockade of grain corridors—a situation threatening global food security. The discussion also encompassed Ukraine's responses to Russian attacks and public opinion in Russia. Additionally, the two leaders touched upon high-level diplomatic contacts, including meetings in Washington, and shared insights into the ongoing diplomatic process.

Bayramov, in turn, reaffirmed his solidarity with the Ukrainian people, sharing firsthand experiences visiting Irpin—a city where he toured a school, a hospital, and a rehabilitation center supported by Azerbaijan. He pledged ongoing humanitarian assistance and the advancement of bilateral relations, assuring Ukraine of unwavering political support and a firm stance on territorial integrity and internationally recognized borders.

The meeting further addressed defense and economic cooperation, with a focus on the Drone Deal and collaboration within the energy, oil and gas, and agricultural sectors. Furthermore, Zelensky and Bayramov discussed the progress made in implementing the agreements previously reached during Zelenskyy's visit to Azerbaijan.