Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan seek new energy investment opportunities – Ambassador (Exclusive interview) (PHOTO)


BAKU: Negotiations are progressing with Saudi Arabian companies interested in investing in Azerbaijan’s energy sector, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Azerbaijan Essam bin Saleh Al-Jutaili said in an exclusive interview with Trend.

Ambassador Al-Juteili highlighted that discussions are underway at the commission level to explore investment opportunities in both the oil and gas sector and renewables in Azerbaijan. He noted that a recent trilateral video conference involved the energy and economy ministers of Azerbaijan and the energy minister of Saudi Arabia.

‘During the meeting, participants exchanged views on potential increases in investments in Azerbaijan’s energy sector,’ added the envoy.

The ambassador also shed light on expanding cooperation in renewable energy.

“ACWA Power, a prominent player in Saudi Arabia’s alternative energy sector, operates in Azerbaijan and is also engaged in energy storage solutions. Recently, a new agreement was signed between
ACWA Power and Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Energy to further enhance their collaboration. We are committed to expanding ACWA Power’s operations in Azerbaijan. ACWA Power is known for its reliability and dedication in fulfilling its commitments,” Al-Juteili stated.

Gearing up for COP29

Ambassador Al-Juteili emphasized the ongoing collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Azerbaijan within the framework of COP29, noting that significant experience exchange is taking place between the working groups of both countries.

“Two months ago, the Saudi Arabian Minister of Energy visited Azerbaijan, following the trip of a 45-member working group. They held productive meetings with officials from both the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan, discussing various avenues for experience sharing. This working group remains actively engaged with their Azerbaijani counterparts to explore Saudi Arabia’s potential contributions to COP29,” the ambassador explained.

Al-Juteili highlighte
d that discussions are ongoing between Saudi Arabia’s minister of energy, Azerbaijan’s minister of ecology and natural resources, and COP29 president Mukhtar Babayev and the working groups are exchanging experience.

The ambassador also mentioned that meetings between the working groups continue in an online format.

“Should the need arise, the working group may visit Azerbaijan again. I wish Azerbaijan great success in hosting COP29, as such a high-profile international event will further showcase its strength and capabilities,” he added.

New investment opportunities

Ambassador Al-Juteili revealed that the Saudi company SALIC is actively exploring new investment prospects in both Karabakh and Azerbaijan at large.

“We are committed to encouraging investors and entrepreneurs to identify and seize investment opportunities independently. In September, a delegation of Saudi investors will visit Azerbaijan, facilitated by the Small and Medium Business Development Agency of Azerbaijan. The Karabakh region, in pa
rticular, offers significant potential for agricultural development. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Agriculture has provided us with detailed information on agricultural zones and areas ripe for investment. Saudi investors have been briefed on the various benefits and opportunities available in Azerbaijan,” Al-Juteili said.

Enhancing trade relations

Ambassador Al-Juteili announced that a trade and business delegation from Saudi Arabia is set to visit Azerbaijan on September 23-27.

‘They will engage with local business leaders and investors to explore joint cooperation opportunities. Additionally, we are coordinating with the chairman of the joint intergovernmental commission, the Ministry of Finance to schedule a commission meeting before the end of the year. This meeting of the commission, involving both public and private sector representatives, is expected to take place in Saudi Arabia,’ he said.

The ambassador also noted that the current trade turnover between Saudi Arabia and Azerbaijan does not fully c
apture the potential of the two countries.

‘We are actively working to boost bilateral trade and uncover new investment opportunities. Our efforts include expanding collaboration in the small and medium-sized business sector. I extend my gratitude to the Small and Medium Business Development Agency for their support in this endeavor,’ he added.

Boosting tourism relations

Ambassador Al-Juteili shared that the Saudi Arabian Tourism Authority, Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Economy, and the State Tourism Agency are collaborating on a tourism exhibition to be held at the EXPO Center in Baku.

‘While the exact date for the event is still to be confirmed, the exhibition will showcase Saudi Arabia’s tourism potential and aims to strengthen connections between tourism companies from both nations,’ he explained.

The ambassador highlighted the robust air connectivity between the countries, noting that during the summer season, Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) and Saudi carriers Flynas and Flyadeal operate three flights daily.


Given the frequency of flights, several new companies have joined the market. Saudi citizens can obtain an Azerbaijani visa either online or upon arrival at the airport, while Azerbaijani citizens can also apply for a Saudi visa online. Those with UK, Schengen, or US visas can receive a Saudi visa at the airport,’ Al-Juteili added.

He emphasized that tourism from Saudi Arabia to Azerbaijan remains strong, thanks to Azerbaijan’s extensive tourism offerings and the renowned hospitality of its people. The State Tourism Agency of Azerbaijan collaborates closely with the Saudi Arabian Embassy, addressing feedback and resolving any issues.

Looking ahead, Al-Juteili noted that Saudi Arabia has significantly bolstered its tourism sector in recent years.

‘With over 100 million tourists visiting Saudi Arabia annually, we aim to welcome 150 million by 2030. This ambitious target necessitates further development of our tourism infrastructure, including hotels, airports, and service sectors. Ongoing projects in the Red
Sea region and Al-Ula are enhancing our tourism appeal. Saudi Arabia’s diverse landscape, featuring mountains, deserts, and coastal areas-including snow-capped regions-offers a rich array of experiences for visitors,’ he said.

Prioritizing Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages

Ambassador Al-Juteili emphasized that organizing the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages remains a top priority for Saudi Arabia.

‘The Minister of Hajj and Umrah recently visited Azerbaijan for the first time, following an invitation from Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade, Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Office. This visit focused on discussing the facilitation of Azerbaijani pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia, their second homeland. Saudi Arabia places immense importance on organizing Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages to Mecca and Medina, the locations of the two holiest shrines. We ensure a high level of hospitality and equal treatment for Muslims from around the world. Utilizing both material and human resources, Saudi Arabia provides comprehensive sup
port to pilgrims. The King and Crown Prince are committed to creating the best conditions for the dignified reception and send-off of guests. Organizing Hajj and Umrah is always a foremost priority for us,’ he said.

Al-Juteili noted that each year, 2 million Muslims perform Hajj, moving between sacred sites over five to six days.

‘Pilgrims follow a highly organized schedule, moving from place to place simultaneously. We ensure their safety and provide top-notch medical services. Managing 2 million guests simultaneously is a remarkable achievement, especially when compared to events like soccer championships, where even 100,000 guests can pose significant logistical challenges. All government agencies are involved in this work. Even hosting a football match can be challenging for a single country, often requiring shared organizational efforts among multiple nations, especially when dealing with 100,000 to 150,000 attendees. In contrast, Saudi Arabia successfully manages the simultaneous presence of 2 million
pilgrims during Hajj. The Saudi government is dedicated to ensuring that pilgrims can perform their rituals seamlessly and without any obstacles,’ he added.

Education

Al-Juteili highlighted that Saudi Arabia is offering scholarships to 127 Azerbaijani students.

He explained that during the recent visit of the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Education delegation, which included rectors and representatives from various universities, discussions were held with Azerbaijan’s Deputy Minister of Education about enhancing student exchange programs between the two countries.

‘As a result of these discussions, we have agreed to accredit five Azerbaijani universities in Saudi Arabia, allowing their diplomas to be recognized there. 127 Azerbaijani students have an opportunity to study in Saudi Arabia across various fields, excluding medicine. The scholarships cover airfare, living expenses, monthly stipends, tuition fees, health insurance, and a travel pass every 11 months,’ he said.

Cooperation in mine clearance

The amb
assador highlighted Saudi Arabia’s support for Azerbaijan’s mine clearance efforts in liberated territories.

‘Mines pose significant challenges to the development and habitation of these areas. In response, Saudi Arabia has extended assistance to aid mine clearance operations in Azerbaijan’s liberated regions. Abdullah Rabia, representing the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre , participated in an international event organized by the Azerbaijan Mine Action Agency, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to this cause,’ he said.

The ambassador concluded by emphasizing the strong mutual support between Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabia in international forums and organizations.

‘Our countries demonstrate exceptional coordination across various sectors. Since my arrival in Azerbaijan in September 2023, I have been dedicated to advancing our bilateral relations. Azerbaijan’s support for Saudi Arabia’s bid to host EXPO 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup is deeply appreciated. This mutual backing reflects the s
trength of our partnership,’ he added.

Source: Trend News Agency