Jeyhun Bayramov receives outgoing UNICEF representative in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov held a meeting with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Representative in Azerbaijan, Saja Farooq Abdullah, on the occasion of the completion of her diplomatic mission in the country.

According to Report, during the meeting, the sides discussed cooperation between Azerbaijan and the UN, including UNICEF. They reviewed joint initiatives and projects implemented both in Azerbaijan and internationally.

Minister Bayramov expressed gratitude to Saja Farooq Abdullah for her efforts in strengthening cooperation between Azerbaijan and UNICEF and wished her success in her future endeavors.

The meeting emphasized Azerbaijan’s active engagement with the UN and UNICEF, particularly highlighting the exemplary cooperation demonstrated during the Baku Climate Conference (COP29), as well as in preparation for the upcoming 13th World Urban Forum, which Azerbaijan is set to host next year.

In addition to joint projects aimed at improving the lives, health, and education of children in Azerbaijan, the importance of cooperation with UNICEF was underlined—especially in coordinating projects where Azerbaijan acts as a donor, including an initiative to build a secondary school in Palestine.

Jeyhun Bayramov also briefed the guest in detail on the large-scale reconstruction and development work being carried out in the liberated territories in the post-conflict period. He spoke about the implementation of “smart city” and “smart village” concepts and the measures being taken to ensure the dignified return of Azerbaijani citizens to their homeland.

Saja Farooq Abdullah expressed satisfaction that during her tenure in Azerbaijan, key indicators for children’s health, well-being, and quality of life had significantly improved, noting the importance of fruitful collaboration with relevant state institutions.

The UNICEF representative thanked the Azerbaijani side for the support and cooperation provided during her mission and expressed hope for the continued development of the partnership between Azerbaijan and UNICEF.

The meeting also included an exchange of views on other topics of mutual interest.