KATHMANDU: The Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDIA) has called on Azerbaijan to invest in Nepal’s hydropower sector.
During a meeting with Mukhtar Babayev, COP29 President and Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Climate Issues in Kathmandu on Friday, AIDIA Founding President Sunil KC emphasized the potential for bilateral economic cooperation, particularly in clean energy.
KC also highlighted Nepal’s reliance on imported fertilizers and suggested exploring direct imports from Azerbaijan to support Nepal’s agrarian economy. He proposed enhanced collaboration in green energy and suggested hosting Nepali hydropower experts in Azerbaijan for knowledge exchange.
“Nepal’s expertise in hydropower could support Azerbaijan’s plan to generate 30 percent of its electricity from renewable sources—including hydro, solar, and wind—by 2030,” KC said.
In response, Babayev reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to clean energy, describing it as a key national agenda. “The foundation of any strong relationship is strong business ties,” he noted, adding that expanding economic engagement would further deepen bilateral relations. He also expressed interest in engaging with Nepal’s private sector and business community.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Sagarmatha Sambaad, a flagship dialogue platform hosted by the Government of Nepal. Discussions also explored potential areas of cooperation between Nepal and Azerbaijan, including energy infrastructure, hydropower, and tourism promotion, according to an AIDIA press release.
Babayev is in Nepal as a keynote speaker at the inaugural edition of Sagarmatha Sambaad. He delivered his speech during the opening session, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday in Kathmandu.
Source: Republica
