Top Envoy: UK Looks to Expand Trade Horizons in Azerbaijan

UK’s Trade Envoy for Azerbaijan and Central Asia, Lord John Alderdice, has highlighted the strong potential for deepening trade and investment relations between the UK and Azerbaijan.

Lord Alderdice, a member of the UK House of Lords, noted that while current cooperation is already underway in several sectors, there is room for further expansion, particularly in transport, healthcare, and education, The Caspian Post reports via local media.

Reflecting on the ongoing partnership in energy and mineral extraction, he stressed the importance of accompanying infrastructure development to maximize its benefits. “It’s not just about extraction but also the need for railways and other transport infrastructure to facilitate the transportation of these resources,” he said.

Lord Alderdice emphasized that cooperation in natural resources is also advancing academic collaboration and sectoral expertise. “University collaborations, which were previously limited, are now intensifying. I am very pleased about this,” he noted. He also underscored healthcare as a key sector with substantial potential for partnership.

Citing the importance of knowledge sharing, he said joint efforts in medical training and hospital development could foster skilled human capital in both countries.

He noted that sharing expertise between British professionals and Azerbaijani students studying in the UK would bring mutual benefits.

The UK’s envoy also acknowledged the role of international forums in strengthening such collaborations. Referring to the work of the Caspian Policy Center, he said: “It is important to hold such events not only in London but also in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.”

Looking to the future, Lord Alderdice revealed that new UK investments are on the horizon. “In addition to supporting companies currently operating in Azerbaijan, I am working to ensure other British companies become aware of the opportunities there. Many are still unaware of these possibilities, and I take it upon myself to address this,” he stated.

Concluding the interview, he announced his intention to visit Azerbaijan soon. “I have been to your country before, but this will be my first visit in this role. A trip to Kazakhstan is also planned for the autumn months,” Lord Alderdice added.