JAPAN KEEN IN CLOSER COOPERATION WITH AZERBAIJAN
FM of Azerbaijan Elmar Mammadyarov 15 August met with the visiting vice minister of foreign affairs of Japan Ms. Midori Matsushima.
Ms. Midori Matsushima expressed delight with visiting Azerbaijan on the eve of 15th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, noting that Azerbaijan is a leader state in region and plays an important role in development of stability in region. She said the energy sphere develops in the country intensively and Azerbaijan‘s gross domestic product grew 34.5% yearly. The state gives more attention to education and Japan is keen in closer cooperation with Azerbaijan, she undrelined.
Minister Mammadyarov noted the achievements gained in 15 years in the bilateral relations. Mr. Mammadyarov welcomed the initiative of Japan to establish relations with the GUAM member states and highly estimated the first GUAM-Japan consultations in the framework of Baku Summit of GUAM heads of state held in June current year.
Japan‘s constructive stance in regard with the existing conflicts in the GUAM member countries and its support of the territorial integrity of these countries was especially emphasized.
Ms. Midori Matsushima said development of the cooperation relations with the Eastern Europe, Balkan and Caucasian states is the new priority in Japan s foreign policy.
In meeting, also focused were other issues of mutual interest.