A meeting was held in Paris between an Azerbaijani delegation led by Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport Elmin Mammadov and Juan Carlos Salazar, Secretary General of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), along with Nicolas Rallo, Regional Director of ICAO’s European and North Atlantic Office.

The meeting discussed the progress of investigations related to the crash of the Embraer 190 aircraft of Azerbaijan Airlines on December 25, 2024. The sides also exchanged views on aviation and flight safety, the training and professional development of aviation specialists, measures to enhance the activities of the regulatory body in Azerbaijan in line with international standards, and plans to further develop bilateral cooperation.

Noting that investigation of aviation accidents is a priority area, the ICAO representatives expressed the need for appropriate support from Azerbaijan in this field. Both sides emphasized the importance of conducting civil aviation flights in full compliance with all safety norms.

The meeting highlighted the significance of implementing training programs aimed at improving aviation and flight safety regulation, supporting effective government oversight, and ensuring full compliance with ICAO standards. It was also agreed to focus on capacity-building partnerships involving ICAO-appointed experts under technical assistance programs in various areas. The parties agreed to continue bilateral cooperation through the ICAO Capacity Development and Implementation Bureau (CDI).

The sides further agreed to expand cooperation between ICAO, the State Civil Aviation Agency, and aviation operators of the Republic of Azerbaijan across multiple fields. The Azerbaijani delegation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting joint activities with ICAO aimed at the global implementation of international standards in flight safety, aviation safety, and environmental protection.