ISTANBUL

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov on Thursday informed NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska on the ongoing normalization process between his country and Armenia.

The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the issue was discussed during a meeting between the two officials in Baku, noting that Bayramov also informed Shekerinska about diplomatic efforts and confidence-building measures undertaken to ensure “sustainable and lasting peace” in the region, as well as regional transport and connectivity projects.

“During the meeting, the current cooperation agenda and prospects within the partnership between Azerbaijan and NATO, the work carried out within the framework of partnership mechanisms, as well as regional and international security issues were discussed,” the statement said.

It further said both parties noted the importance of the cooperation between Azerbaijan and NATO, noting that the dialogue and interaction being carried out within the framework of their existing partnership “positively contribute to regional security.”

"Our country's experience in participating in NATO peace support operations and missions, close support for the processes in Afghanistan, defense reforms, and work done to ensure adaptability were appreciated," the statement noted.

It went on to say opportunities for cooperation between Azerbaijan and NATO in demining, cybersecurity, and other areas were discussed, adding that an exchange of views on other bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest also took place.

NATO announced on Monday that Shekerinska would hold a two-day visit to Baku starting on Wednesday, where she will also meet with Parliament Speaker Sahiba Gafarova and Elchin Amirbayov, President Ilham Aliyev's representative on special assignments.