Ambassador: Azerbaijan important economic partner of UK

Azerbaijan is an important economic partner for the United Kingdom, the new UK Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Duncan Norman, said at a press conference, Olaylar informs.

"We support a new stage of economic cooperation by deepening ties in trade, investment, and regional connectivity. This will benefit both the British and Azerbaijani peoples as well as businesses, creating a stable and prosperous economic environment for future generations," the ambassador said.

The diplomat noted that for 30 years - since BP entered the market - energy has been the cornerstone of the UKchr("39")s relations with Azerbaijan.

"We are proud of this heritage. We work closely together to support the energy transition, British investments in the clean energy sector, and the utilization of Azerbaijanchr("39")s renewable energy potential," Norman emphasized.

He added that British companies operate across several other sectors as well.

"We view Azerbaijan as a natural regional hub in transport, infrastructure, finance, and data," Norman stated.

Education represents one of the strongest pillars of relations between the two countries, according to the ambassador.

"This year, the UK has once again become the most popular destination for young Azerbaijanis studying abroad under the state program, with 61% of students choosing British universities to receive world-class education," he noted.

The diplomat added that the UK government-funded Chevening scholarship program further strengthens these ties, with applications currently open.

"We encourage talented Azerbaijani citizens who aspire to drive positive change to apply," the ambassador said.

He emphasized that the UK intends to further expand cooperation through new partnerships in education and science, investments in artificial intelligence and digital transformation, as well as skill development and job creation needed for the future in both countries.