The roundtable discussions, which brought together representatives of academic circles and think tanks operating in Croatia, revolved around the current issues of bilateral and multilateral cooperation between Azerbaijan and Croatia, including the current situation in the region.

Addressing the discussions, Minister Jeyhun Bayramov highlighted the exceptional role of mutual contacts, high-level visits, and political consultations in the development of Azerbaijan-Croatia relations, which are of strategic partnership nature. Touching upon the existing mutually beneficial cooperation agenda both on bilateral and multilateral level, the Azerbaijani FM noted that the mutual support and solidarity between the two countries, particularly within international organization is commendable.

He stressed the importance of using the current potential for the development of Azerbaijan-Croatia relations in various areas, particularly in the economic, energy security, alternative energy, investments, transport, logistics, pharmaceuticals and tourism spheres.

Minister Bayramov also briefed the participants about the current situation in the region after the 44-day Patriotic War, the ongoing restoration and reconstruction works in the liberated territories, as well as the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

FM Bayramov also highlighted Armenia’s position and provocations slowing down the process, its steps taken against Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, including the incomplete withdrawal of Armenian armed forces from the territories of Azerbaijan, the interference in the process of reintegration of Armenian population living in the Karabakh region, as well as the ongoing mine threats.

He also described the false Armenian propaganda around the Lachin road as unfounded, saying that the roads passing through Azerbaijani territories ensure the conditions to deliver cargo to the areas of Azerbaijan’s Karabakh region, where Armenian population is resided. “Despite all of this Armenia and the representatives of the so-called regime it established in the territories of Azerbaijan are hindering the process,” the minister said.

The FM also described the claims on “blockade” and “difficult humanitarian situation” as nothing more but political manipulation, noting that Armenia has been misusing the Lachin road over the two and a half years after the war.

“It is more important than ever that the international community provides the right assessment of the situation in the region, as well as take an adequate position against Armenia's provocations, in order not to miss the historic opportunity to ensure peace in the region after almost thirty years of conflict,” the minister added.