Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom have signed a joint declaration establishing a strategic partnership, paving the way for expanded cooperation in defense, security, trade, investment, education and innovation.

The document was signed by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham in Dublin, according to Qazinform.

The declaration identifies three key pillars of bilateral cooperation: defense and security, trade and investment, and education and innovation.

Under the agreement, Azerbaijan and the UK reaffirmed their long-term commitment to strengthening defense and security cooperation in support of regional peace and stability. The two countries also intend to improve their ability to deter, prevent and respond to common threats.

The document provides for expanded military training, capacity building, defense industry cooperation, law enforcement and border management. Both sides also pledged to enhance coordination on regional and international security issues.

The declaration highlights the importance of maintaining regular high-level engagement and deepening cooperation on bilateral, regional and international matters of mutual interest.

Economic cooperation represents another major pillar of the strategic partnership. The two countries plan to increase trade and investment, develop renewable energy projects and support the Middle Corridor to strengthen regional transport links and connectivity.

Other priorities include cooperation in financial markets, green finance and infrastructure development.

Particular importance is attached to the Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation, which will serve as the principal platform for advancing joint initiatives in investment, economic diversification, Middle Corridor development and energy cooperation.

The agreement also places emphasis on expanding cooperation in higher education, vocational training, scientific research and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and digital governance.

Azerbaijan and the UK intend to strengthen academic exchanges and partnerships between universities, research institutions and businesses, while promoting cooperation in digitalization, life sciences and technological innovation.

The two sides will also exchange expertise in artificial intelligence, digital governance and innovation, with a focus on skills development, transparency and inclusive growth.

People-to-people exchanges and professional networks are expected to play an important role in strengthening cultural ties, mutual understanding and long-term cooperation between the two societies.

Under the declaration, Azerbaijan and the UK will hold annual Strategic Partnership meetings to assess progress, set priorities for future cooperation and agree on practical steps to advance their bilateral agenda.