The relationship between Azerbaijan and China is founded on a deep historical background, mutual respect, and strategic vision. Over the past decades, this friendship has grown steadily, thanks to the foresight of the leaders of both countries, leading to significant achievements in political, economic, and cultural spheres.

Prof. Humbat Musayev in his office speaking on the phone.

Xinjiang – a Pillar of China’s Economic Miracle

The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, one of the most dynamically developing regions of the People’s Republic of China, is located in the northwestern part of the country and holds strategic importance. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the region’s establishment — a significant milestone in its economic and cultural development. The anniversary holds special meaning for Azerbaijan as well, since Xinjiang lies at key points along the ancient Silk Road and is part of the main routes of the Belt and Road Initiative.

Xinjiang is not only one of China’s largest administrative entities by territory, but it also serves as the country's “western gateway”, representing a model of cultural diversity and economic progress. In 2024, Xinjiang’s gross regional product exceeded 2.05 trillion yuan (approximately USD 281 billion), reflecting a 6.1% increase compared to the previous year. This growth was made possible through large-scale projects in agriculture, renewable energy, and the digital economy.

Xinjiang is also one of the few regions in China where ethnocultural diversity is fully preserved. Uygurs, Kazaks, Kirgizs, and other ethnic groups freely maintain and develop their languages, cultures, and religious traditions.

In recent years, Xinjiang has seen the implementation of large-scale development projects. The modernization of infrastructure, the expansion of transport and logistics routes, and the creation of tourism clusters have not only enhanced the region’s economic potential but also strengthened its role in international cooperation.

Cultural Affinity and Economic Ties with Xinjiang

There are a number of parallels between Azerbaijan and China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Both territories are home to numerous ethnic groups, rich musical and folklore traditions, and share the historical legacy of the great Silk Road. In the past, caravan routes connected Baku with what is now the Horgos border crossing. Today, this historical link continues through the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, the Port of Baku, and the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor). Container trains departing from Xinjiang pass through Azerbaijan on their way to Europe – a route of strategic importance for the economic development of China’s western regions.

Cultural parallels between Azerbaijan and Xinjiang are also evident. Both regions have preserved ancient musical traditions. For example, Azerbaijan’s Mugham and Xinjiang’s Muqam share similar musical structures. These forms of music are expressions of the rich cultural heritage of both peoples and have been recognized by UNESCO as elements of intangible cultural heritage.

Both regions also maintain deep-rooted traditions in craftsmanship and carpet weaving. Carpets from Karabakh and Sheki can be compared to those from Kashi and Hotan. These works of decorative and applied art reflect the aesthetic sensibilities and high level of craftsmanship of the regions.

In economic terms, the advantageous geographic locations of Azerbaijan and Xinjiang make them vital transport and logistics hubs. The Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway and the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route form key links in the trade corridors connecting Xinjiang with Europe. These routes are also among the main components of the Belt and Road Initiative and contribute to strengthening regional economic integration.

Prof. Humbat Musayev attending a meeting.

Shared Goals and a Vision for the Future

As the region’s role grows on the Belt and Road Initiative map, new areas of synergy are emerging between Azerbaijan and China’s Xinjiang. Overall, the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and the People’s Republic of China serves as a model for other countries around the world. As noted by Her Excellency Ms. Lu Mei, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to Azerbaijan, China and Azerbaijan show mutual understanding for each other’s core interests, and their relations – grounded in political trust and strategic vision – have created a stable and resilient environment for cooperation.

This interaction manifests not only in economic ties but also in the fields of culture, education, and tourism. Furthermore, there is substantial potential for cooperation between Azerbaijan and China’s Xinjiang in the areas of renewable energy and the digital economy. Azerbaijan’s green energy strategy and the renewable energy projects being implemented in Xinjiang create favorable conditions for joint initiatives in this field. In the sphere of the digital economy, joint projects are also being carried out within the framework of the “Digital Silk Road” initiative. As a result, the existing cultural, economic, and strategic ties between Azerbaijan and China’s Xinjiang are expected to deepen further in the future and contribute to the development of both regions.

The Azerbaijan-China Strategic Partnership Based on Mutual Trust

Thus, the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and China has reached a new peak. The development of all regions of the friendly country – including the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, which in recent years has drawn attention with its rapid progress – and cooperation built on a shared historical and cultural foundation have made the friendship between Azerbaijan and China even stronger and more unshakable. The state visit of President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan served as confirmation of these ties. Within the framework of the modern revival of the ancient Silk Road – the Belt and Road Initiative—Azerbaijan plays a vital role, becoming a strategic link that connects China with Europe. This partnership lays the foundation for a long-term shared future based on stability, development, and mutual respect.

Cooperation between our nations encompasses not only the political sphere, but also the fields of economy, energy, transportation, digital technologies, education, and culture. Of particular note is the collaboration in the fields of culture and education. The organization of mutual cultural days, student exchange programs, and language-learning initiatives strengthens mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples. These efforts contribute to the preservation of shared cultural heritage and help future generations gain deeper knowledge of one another.

The strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and China is based on mutual respect, trust, and common interests. It plays an essential role in ensuring regional stability and development and will continue to make a significant contribution to the prosperity of both nations in the future.

Prof. Humbat Musayev is the editor-in-chief of Respublika Newspaper in Azerbaijan.

Producer: Xiao Chunfei

Supervisors: Ding Tao and Jie Wenjin

Planners: Jie Wenjin and Cheng Li

Reviewers: Cheng Li and Hou Weili

Editor: Gvlzar Mijit