President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau concluded his historic official visit to Azerbaijan on February 28, 2025. The visit marks the first of its kind for the head of state from Guinea-Bissau, reflecting the strengthening ties between the two nations.
The end of the visit was marked by ceremonious honors at the Heydar Aliyev International Airport, where both countries' flags flew high, and a guard of honor awaited the departing president. Among those present to see President Embalo off were Azerbaijan's First Deputy Prime Minister Yagub Eyubov and Deputy Foreign Minister Yalchin Rafiev, alongside other officials, as reported by AzerTAC.
During the visit, President Embalo and his Azerbaijani counterpart, President Ilham Aliyev, made statements to the press on February 27. President Aliyev opened the press conference by welcoming his brotherly guest and expressing joy over Embalo's acceptance of the invitation for this official visit. "This visit confirms the close brotherly relations between our countries and shows our committed collaborative work," Aliyev stated.
Aliyev emphasized the historical significance of the visit, highlighting it as Guinea-Bissau’s first official visit to Azerbaijan. He mentioned their agreement to strengthen partnership efforts across various fields, including defense, healthcare, and educational sectors. "We discussed important issues on our bilateral agenda and agreed to advance our cooperation," he added.
Reinforcing the collaborative spirit, President Aliyev pointed to their shared commitment to support one another within international organizations such as the UN, OIC, and the Non-Aligned Movement. He expressed confidence about future economic cooperation by stating, "I am certain we will find specific points of contact to implement projects, especially as we are already investing in many countries."
Following President Aliyev's comments, President Embalo reciprocated with gratitude for the warm welcome he received and affirmed Guinea-Bissau’s desire to renew collaboration with Azerbaijan. He remarked, "We are here today to revive our cooperation across numerous sectors, including military training, health, education, and security. This visit presents us with the opportunity to meet and benefit both our nations." He highlighted the arrival of the first team of military and police trainers to Azerbaijan shortly after his visit, marking the beginning of new collaborative efforts.
With both leaders confirming their countries' friendship and mutual objectives at the core of their interactions, the Azerbaijani President expressed hope for Embalo's return, which was reciprocated with an invitation for Aliyev to visit Guinea-Bissau. This visit not only underlines the burgeoning friendship but also paves the way for future direct engagements between the two states.
Throughout the state visit, President Embalo participated in various activities, including paying homage to the late national leader of Azerbaijan, Heydar Aliyev, at the Alley of Honor, laying flowers at his burial site. This gesture underscored the respect and acknowledgment of Azerbaijan's significant historical figures.
President Embalo also visited Victory Park, where he laid flowers at the monument of victory commemorated during the 44-day Patriotic War, reflecting on Azerbaijan’s resilience and honor throughout its recent history.
On the closing day, numerous delegations enhanced discussions surrounding specific investment opportunities followed by detailed projects, which the countries aim to launch immediately, showcasing the enhanced business environment facilitated by their political ties.
The official visit concludes with renewed hopes for establishing actionable frameworks for bilateral relations, with both leaders optimistic for the future. Embalo’s visit is seen as the beginning of closer ties and fruitful cooperation rooted deeply within shared socioeconomic interests and mutual respect.
Underlining the importance of diplomatic visits, experts believe such engagements can significantly ease pathways for economic collaboration, paving the way for fine-tuned relations between not just Guinea-Bissau and Azerbaijan, but also impacting other nations across bilateral trade routes.
With the end of President Embalo’s historic visit, both nations expect to reconvene for future dialogues and plans aimed at realizing shared objectives and enhancing mutual benefits.