UK and Azerbaijan agree strategic partnership covering defence industry and trade
The United Kingdom and the Republic of Azerbaijan have adopted a Joint Declaration on a Strategic Partnership, raising bilateral relations to that level. The document was adopted in Dublin on 12 November 2026.
It builds on earlier declarations from 1994 and 1998. Its cooperation is split across three pillars, and is subject to available resources and each country's laws and regulations.
Defence and security
Both sides commit to defence cooperation focused on training, capacity building and interoperability. They will also explore ways to strengthen defence industry cooperation, including joint initiatives in areas of shared interest. The declaration adds closer work on law enforcement, border management and judicial collaboration.
Trade, investment and energy
The two countries aim to broaden trade and investment ties by encouraging long-term commercial partnerships and business-to-business links. Priority sectors named include renewable energy, infrastructure and services.
- Support for developing the Middle Corridor, along with transport, logistics and infrastructure projects that ease cross-border trade and investment.
- Cooperation on the clean energy transition, covering renewable energy development, green finance and low-carbon technologies.
- Exploring deeper links in financial and capital markets, including trade finance, SME growth and green finance.
The Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation is named as the main platform for advancing investment, economic diversification, Middle Corridor and energy initiatives.
Education, science and innovation
The third pillar covers education and skills, including vocational education and training and digital and technical skills. It also promotes partnerships between universities, research institutions and industry on digitalisation, emerging technologies and life sciences, including exchanging expertise on artificial intelligence.
The two governments will hold an annual Strategic Partnership meeting to review progress, set priorities and agree practical follow-up.
Source: GOV.UK life sciences · Image: Pixabay