Baku: Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the Federal National Council (FNC), met with Ali Asadov, Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan, at the Cabinet headquarters in Baku. This meeting was part of Ghobash's official visit to Azerbaijan for the International Parliamentary Conference, which marked the 30th anniversary of the adoption of Azerbaijan's Constitution.
According to Emirates News Agency, Prime Minister Asadov welcomed Ghobash and his delegation, expressing Azerbaijan's interest in boosting cooperation with the UAE. He acknowledged the growing bilateral relations facilitated by the leadership of both nations and emphasized the significance of joint efforts in the economic, investment, renewable energy, education, and innovation sectors. Asadov also praised the UAE's role in promoting security, stability, and sustainable development on a regional and international scale.
Ghobash conveyed his gratitude to Asadov for the warm reception and hospitality, sending greetings from President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He expressed hopes for Azerbaijan's continued progress and prosperity. Ghobash noted the advanced stage of UAE-Azerbaijan relations, driven by a shared leadership vision, and referenced President Sheikh Mohamed's official visit to Azerbaijan in September 2025. This visit led to the announcement of a Comprehensive Partnership Agreement, furthering bilateral cooperation.
During the meeting, Ghobash reiterated the UAE's complete support for Azerbaijan's upcoming hosting of the 16th Islamic Summit of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in 2026. He acknowledged Azerbaijan's role in supporting Islamic causes and fostering joint Islamic initiatives. Ghobash also highlighted the importance of strengthening economic, trade, and investment ties, particularly after the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This agreement has significantly boosted non-oil trade between the UAE and Azerbaijan, reaching approximately US$2.4 billion in 2024-a 43 percent increase from 2023.
The meeting included attendance from Mohammed Murad Alblooshi, UAE Ambassador to Azerbaijan, and various senior officials.