The UK government has entered into a fresh commitment with Azerbaijan to take on the challenges of clean energy and to further jointly invest in renewable technologies. As part of the commitment, both countries will work to grow their renewable energy markets and further cement their trade relationship.

George Hollingbery, the Trade Policy Minister, met with Azerbaijan government representatives last week in London to discuss trade opportunities with a focus on the renewable energy sector. They agreed that it was essential to further diversify economic production, to further invest in clean energy solutions and to build on existing capabilities for renewable energy.

The UK's existing renewables expertise was also outlined to the visiting delegates. Britain is a global leader in clean energy generation, and it has worked hard to cut its emissions quicker than any other G7 nation. It also possesses leading capabilities in areas that include waste management and green finances as well as offshore wind and is ready to assist Azerbaijan in its own efforts.

The countries are important trading partners, with their total trade value worth more than £1 billion last year - a growth of 66% compared to 2017. Azerbaijan has one of the most rapidly growing economies in the world, and it is an important partner to British trade, with more than 400 UK businesses currently with trade ties. Engineering and energy expertise are two key areas which have ready markets across the partnership.

Britain is the biggest investor in the country, and it contributes just over 50% of the region's total investment. The two countries have sound political relationships alongside their commercial relationships, and the two governments now plan to focus on areas such as renewable energy, healthcare, agriculture and education.