British Minister for Europe Stephen Doughty announced the upgrading of relations between the UK and Azerbaijan to a strategic partnership during his visit to Baku. 

According to the UK Foreign Office, discussions focused on the Armenian-Azerbaijani peace process, the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, and regional security.

It is noted that the visit underscores the United Kingdom's confirmed commitment to strengthening ties with Azerbaijan, which is recognized as one of the UK's most important strategic partners in the South Caucasus region.

During his meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Doughty discussed opportunities for expanding cooperation in the areas of economic development and security, noting Azerbaijan's key role in ensuring regional stability and prosperity.

It is noted that “a separate conversation between the minister and Azerbaijani Presidential Aide Hikmet Hajiyev confirmed the United Kingdom's high regard for Azerbaijan's constructive leadership in regional peacebuilding processes.”