India seeks to rebuild ties with Azerbaijan after diplomatic tensions

India is making diplomatic overtures to reset its relationship with Azerbaijan following a period of strain in bilateral ties. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held separate meetings with Azerbaijan's President and Foreign Minister Bayramov on Friday as part of efforts to restore engagement.

Relations between the two countries had cooled after Baku publicly criticized India's Operation Sindoor and raised concerns about New Delhi's Kashmir policy, calling for its "resolution." The diplomatic tensions marked a departure from the traditionally cooperative relationship between India and the oil-rich Caucasus nation.

During Friday's talks, Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Bayramov indicated a willingness to move beyond the contentious issues, characterizing his discussion with Jaishankar as "fruitful." Bayramov emphasized potential areas of mutual benefit, highlighting shared interests in expanding trade relations, promoting tourism, and deepening energy sector cooperation.

The engagement underscores India's broader strategy to maintain stable ties across South and Central Asia despite occasional policy disagreements. Officials on both sides appear committed to compartmentalizing disputes while exploring opportunities for economic and strategic cooperation.

Bilateral economic ties, particularly in energy, have traditionally formed the foundation of India-Azerbaijan relations. The renewed diplomatic focus suggests both nations are prioritizing pragmatic engagement over recent points of contention.