OREANDA-NEWS. July 21, 2009. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Sweden Carl Bildt.

The parties stressed their satisfaction with development of relationship between the two countries. The need for expansion of political dialogue was stressed at the meeting. They said there are ample opportunities for further development of bilateral relations. Importance of enhancing Azerbaijan-Sweden ties as part of EU-Azerbaijan cooperation was highlighted. Both parties expressed confidence that Swedish Foreign Minister`s visit to Azerbaijan would help strengthen bilateral ties.

Afterwards, President Ilham Aliyev received the delegation of the EU Troika led by Swedish FM Bildt.

President Ilham Aliyev said he is satisfied with the level of cooperation between Azerbaijan and European Union, adding Eastern Partnership program will help further strengthen the cooperation and provide additional opportunities for Azerbaijan`s European integration. Azerbaijani leader pointed out European integration is one of the country`s strategic goals, saying this policy has been continued successfully for the past 15 years. The Head of State underscored the importance of the visit of Troika`s delegation for exchanging views on a number of issues concerning the cooperation.

Head of the delegation Carl Bildt said EU is keen on cooperating with Azerbaijan. He stressed the importance of cooperation concerning energy, counter-terrorism.

Carl Bildt said EU is keeping a close eye on the peace talks on Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.