President Aliyev embarks on visit to China

/By AzerNews/

By Aynur Karimova

President Ilham Aliyev has embarked on a state visit to China.

The city officials welcomed President Aliyev at the Xian International Airport on December 8.

Relations between Azerbaijan and China have a long history. Because of its advantageous geographical situation Azerbaijan was a natural crossing point on the way from East to West and North to South and was one of the main trade, transport and cultural centers on the Great Silk Road.

China recognized the independence of Azerbaijan in 1991. The diplomatic relations between the two countries were established a year later. The Embassy of China to Azerbaijan was opened in 1992, while Azerbaijan’s Embassy to China was opened in 1993. The two countries permanently support each other on international organizations.

China is a huge opportunity and a priority market for Azerbaijan. More than 50 agreements were signed between the two countries.

The trade turnover between China and Azerbaijan amounted to $288.4 million in the first six months of 2015, some $259.3 million of which were accounted for Azerbaijan's import operations.