“The contemporary world is not very stable. It faces a complex array of threats, including terrorism and cybercrime. These challenges highlight the ongoing need for international cooperation,” political commentator and founder of the China Briefing newsletter, Shen Shiwei, said in an exclusive interview with AZERTAC.

Speaking on China’s approach to relations with the South Caucasus region, including Central Asia and Azerbaijan, Shen Shiwei emphasized the importance of both bilateral and multilateral cooperation.

“Regarding bilateral cooperation, it is worth emphasizing the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Azerbaijan. As for multilateral cooperation, there is active engagement within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Azerbaijan currently holds the status of a dialogue partner in the SCO and has applied for full membership. China has expressed its full support for Azerbaijan’s accession as a full member of the organization,” he noted.

Shen Shiwei also stressed that China regards these nations and regions as strategic partners both bilaterally and multilaterally, highlighting Beijing’s interest in deepening economic cooperation with Central Asia and the South Caucasus, particularly along the Middle Corridor.