The officials discussed how best to advance overall bilateral cooperation. Mr Igor Becic spoke about the strategic partnership between the two states characterized by good and friendly relations, opining that there is still room to advance the already excellent bilateral relations. He thanked the Republic of Azerbaijan for its consistent and principled support of Serbia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty and its recent vote against so-called Kosovo’s INTERPOL bid. Mr Becic emphasized the efficient and successful engagement of the National Assembly standing delegation to PABSEC and its admirable reputation in the organization.

Mr Becic informed the Azerbaijani official about Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and the Government’s comprehensive reform efforts aimed at raising the living standard of the Serbian citizens. He said that the question of Kosovo-Metohija is very important for Serbia and it is essential that the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue take Serbia’s legitimate interests into consideration. He also highlighted the resolve of the state and its President to combat corruption and organized crime and ensure the security and safety of all the citizens of the Republic of Serbia.

Mahir Jafarov, Counsellor at the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Belgrade, underlined the importance of the excellent strategic relations between Serbia and Azerbaijan, as well as the two countries’ ongoing intensive dialogue. Last year saw a marked improvement of political and economic cooperation, as well as cooperation in the social sphere. He reaffirmed his country’s support of Serbia’s stance on Kosovo-Metohija both at the bilateral and multilateral level where Azerbaijan always stands by Serbia as evidenced by the country’s vote against so-called Kosovo’s INTERPOL bid. Jafarov praised the two countries’ excellent cooperation in international organizations such as the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation.