Sheikh Hamdan Strengthens UAE-Azerbaijan Ties at Baku’s Victory Day Celebration
<p>Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, attended Azerbaijan’s <i>‘Victory Day’</i> celebrations in Baku on behalf of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The high-profile event marked a significant moment in the deepening relationship between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Azerbaijan.</p><p>The annual <i>Victory Day</i> celebration, held in the capital city of Baku, commemorates Azerbaijan’s triumph in the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and honors the country’s resilience and unity. This year’s ceremony witnessed the participation of international dignitaries, world leaders, and senior government officials. The UAE’s presence, represented by Sheikh Hamdan, reaffirmed the nation’s strong diplomatic and economic partnership with Azerbaijan.</p><p>During the event, Sheikh Hamdan extended the greetings of the UAE’s leadership — His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai; and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister. He conveyed warm congratulations to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, his government, and the people of Azerbaijan on this significant national occasion.</p><h3><strong>Expanding Bilateral Cooperation</strong></h3><p>In his address, Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the robust and evolving relations between the UAE and Azerbaijan. He commended Azerbaijan’s remarkable achievements in economic development, infrastructure growth, and technological innovation. The Crown Prince emphasized that the UAE is keen to enhance collaboration with Azerbaijan across multiple sectors, including trade, investment, renewable energy, culture, and digital transformation.</p><p>Sheikh Hamdan noted that both nations share a vision for sustainable progress and global cooperation. “The UAE and Azerbaijan have always stood together as partners in development and innovation,” he stated. “Our growing relationship reflects a mutual commitment to achieving prosperity through shared values of peace, stability, and collaboration.”</p><p>He further highlighted that UAE-based companies are increasingly investing in Azerbaijan, particularly in clean energy, smart infrastructure, and tourism development. Likewise, Azerbaijani businesses are exploring opportunities in the UAE’s dynamic markets, strengthening the foundation for mutual growth.</p><h3><strong>High-Level UAE Delegation in Attendance</strong></h3><p>Sheikh Hamdan arrived in Baku earlier in the day, leading a distinguished UAE delegation. Upon his arrival at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, he was warmly received by Emin Amrullayev, Minister of Science and Education of Azerbaijan, along with several senior Azerbaijani officials.</p><p>The UAE delegation accompanying Sheikh Hamdan included prominent figures such as:</p><p><strong>Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber</strong>, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology</p><p><strong>Omar Sultan Al Olama</strong>, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications</p><p><strong>Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri</strong>, Minister of State</p><p><strong>Lieutenant General Ibrahim Nasser Al-Alawi</strong>, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defence</p><p><strong>Major General Khalifa Rashid Al Hamli</strong>, Director of the Office of the Minister of Defence</p><p><strong>Muhammad Murad Al Balushi</strong>, UAE Ambassador to Azerbaijan</p><p>The presence of such a high-level delegation reflects the UAE’s commitment to strengthening strategic and diplomatic relations with Azerbaijan. It also underlines the country’s proactive role in fostering regional stability and global cooperation.</p><h3><strong>A Vision for Shared Prosperity</strong></h3><p>The UAE and Azerbaijan enjoy strong diplomatic relations built on mutual respect and economic collaboration. Over the years, both countries have signed numerous agreements to enhance cooperation in sectors such as renewable energy, education, technology, and cultural exchange.</p><p>With both nations emphasizing innovation and sustainable development, their partnership is expected to grow stronger in the coming years. The UAE’s advanced technological expertise and Azerbaijan’s strategic geographical position make for a powerful alliance in driving regional economic growth.</p><p>As the <i>Victory Day</i> celebrations concluded, Sheikh Hamdan reiterated the UAE’s ongoing commitment to deepening ties with Azerbaijan. “Our relationship is built on trust, friendship, and a shared vision for the future,” he said. “We look forward to working closely with Azerbaijan to unlock new opportunities that benefit both our peoples and contribute to lasting peace and prosperity in the region.”</p>