Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has expressed Bangladesh’s keen interest in strengthening bilateral relations with Azerbaijan through improved connectivity, increased trade and educational exchanges.

During a meeting with Azerbaijan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Elnur Mammadov, held at State Guest House Jamuna on Tuesday afternoon, Chief Adviser emphasized the need to launch a direct flight between Dhaka and Baku and called for the opening of an Azerbaijani embassy in Dhaka.

He noted that such initiatives would not only facilitate student exchange but also enhance business cooperation.

“For Bangladeshi students, Azerbaijan still feels like a distant country,” said Professor Yunus. “A direct flight would provide easier access for students pursuing studies in energy in Azerbaijan, while Azerbaijani students could benefit from Bangladesh’s expertise in the textile sector.”

The Chief Adviser pointed out that establishing an Azerbaijani diplomatic mission in Dhaka would eliminate visa-related challenges and help build a closer relationship. “Your presence in Bangladesh is crucial for developing stronger ties,” he added.

The discussions covered a wide range of areas for cooperation, including trade, investment, energy, education, technology, infrastructure, and cultural exchange.

Professor Yunus recalled his meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev during the COP29 summit held in Baku in November last year and congratulated Azerbaijan for successfully hosting the global climate event.

He also conveyed his gratitude to President Aliyev for dispatching a high-level delegation to Bangladesh, as agreed during their meeting.

Highlighting Bangladesh’s demographic advantage, Professor Yunus urged Azerbaijani investors to explore opportunities in the country. “With a population of nearly 180 million, half of whom are youth, we can offer a skilled workforce for any industrial venture,” he said.

Deputy Minister Mammadov expressed Azerbaijan’s intention to deepen strategic ties with Bangladesh, particularly as the two nations approach the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027. “We are here to strengthen our relationship,” he stated.

He also shared details about Azerbaijan’s ASAN and DOST service models, designed to improve transparency, curb corruption, and enhance public service delivery. The Chief Adviser welcomed these innovations and showed interest in exploring similar systems for implementation in Bangladesh.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Deputy Minister Mammadov delivered a formal invitation from President Aliyev to Professor Yunus to attend the 17th Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), scheduled to be held in Azerbaijan in July 2025.