Emirati Prince Zayed Meets Azerbaijan's Economy Minister for High-Level Talks

UAE officials met with Azerbaijan's Economy Minister to expand business partnerships between the two countries, focusing on technology, energy, and natural resources. The talks included major UAE companies discussing specific projects worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan led a UAE delegation to Azerbaijan, where he met with Economy Minister Mikayil Jabbarov. The meeting centered on growing economic ties between private sector companies in both nations.

The discussions covered several key areas: advanced technology, digital transformation, energy, natural resources, and innovation. Both sides want to build on existing partnerships and launch new joint projects that support economic growth and sustainable development goals.

Several UAE company executives joined the talks. This included leaders from International Resources Holding, Sirius International Holding, Global Holding, and Palms Sports.

**Concrete business deals emerged from the visit.** International Resources Holding explored mining cooperation opportunities with Azerbaijani partners. The company plans to bring advanced exploration capabilities and sustainable practices to help grow Azerbaijan's natural resources sector.

Sirius International Holding discussed expanding digital transformation projects in Azerbaijan's electricity and water sectors. The company also talked about smart energy grid infrastructure to support the country's energy transition.

But Sirius already has a major project underway in Azerbaijan. The company is working on a $480 million smart gas network project through its subsidiary Esyasoft, partnering with Azerbaijan's national oil company SOCAR. This project includes AI-powered network management, smart meters, and advanced digital infrastructure.

Palms Sports, which sponsors the Neftchi football club, explored ways to deepen sports cooperation in Azerbaijan. The company wants to expand its presence there through football programs, martial arts, community initiatives, and athlete development.

**Here's why this matters:** Azerbaijan sits at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, making it a strategic partner for UAE companies looking to expand globally. The country has significant oil and gas reserves, but it's also working to diversify its economy - exactly where UAE expertise can help.

The timing is important too. Both countries are pushing hard on digital transformation and sustainable energy projects. Azerbaijan needs the technology and investment, while UAE companies get access to new markets and resources.

This visit was part of a broader series of meetings between UAE and Azerbaijani officials. The goal is building long-term partnerships that go beyond traditional energy cooperation into technology, sports, and infrastructure development.