Azerbaijan, Netherlands mull agricultural cooperation

By Azernews

By Nigar Abbasova

Azerbaijan, which places a huge emphasis on the development of agriculture in the country, expands its international cooperation in the sphere.

The recently-established Azerbaijan Fruit and Vegetable Producers and Exporters Association and Azerbaijani-Dutch Business Center signed a memorandum of understanding, which envisages strengthening of cooperation in agrarian sector, as well as implementation of joint projects and programs by the sides. 

Newly-appointed Dutch Ambassador to Baku, Onno Kervers said the memorandum is a good model for successful relations, mentioning that the document would positively contribute to boosting business environment between the two countries.

Kervers also highlighted the upcoming visit of Agriculture Minister Heydar Asadov to Netherlands scheduled for October 26-29.

Head of the Association Bashir Guliyev, in turn, spoke about the successful agrarian policy carried out in the country underlining institutional reforms carried out in the sector.

Enjoying advantageous geographic location, Azerbaijan has every opportunity to increase export of high quality agro products, which are in great demand. The country seeks to further develop its agriculture and food industry both for import substitution and export.

The Netherlands, which is considered to be one of the leading agribusiness countries in Europe, ranks fourth in terms of the volume of investments made in Azerbaijan. The country invested some $340 million in Azerbaijan over the last three years.

The country earlier showed interest in cooperation, exchanging and sharing experiences with Azerbaijan in agriculture, in particular water industry, lake water purification, irrigation, breeding, and floriculture.

The trade turnover between the Netherlands and Azerbaijan amounted to $44.71 million in the first quarter of 2016, $21.65 million of which fell on exports to this country, according to the Azerbaijani State Customs Committee.