BAKU, April 1 (Xinhua) -- Azerbaijan is currently experiencing a boom in Chinese language learning, driven by its dynamic economic interactions with China and the recognition of China's growing global importance, an Azerbaijani expert has said.
In a recent interview with Xinhua, Rafiq Abbasov, head of the Department of Chinese Studies at the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, said that more Azerbaijani students are choosing to study in China or attend Chinese language classes.
Abbasov also serves as the director of the Confucius Institute at the Azerbaijan University of Languages, which is now offering Chinese language courses at several universities and schools across the country. Some children begin to learn Chinese as early as age seven or eight, and seminars he has organized on China have attracted large audiences, reflecting strong local interest and enthusiasm, the expert noted.
In his opinion, China is Azerbaijan's reliable partner in developing economic ties, and bilateral economic links are strengthening rapidly.
Azerbaijan has a strong interest in collaborating with China in the high-tech sector, given China's technological advancement, the expert said.
He added that the two countries are also cooperating closely on green energy, as China is a leader in solar panel production and wind energy.
Abbasov noted that the Great Silk Road has historically linked Azerbaijan and China. Following the implementation of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, aimed at enhancing connectivity among people and cultures, Azerbaijan has been actively involved in reviving the Great Silk Road, taking advantage of its strategic location between China and Europe.
Abbasov, who had also served for a long time in the Azerbaijani presidential administration, further said that Azerbaijan's leadership is interested in Chinese policies, noting that the country has drawn on China's experience in developing its own special economic zones.
Many Azerbaijani companies employ Chinese technologies. Azerbaijani youth already clearly understand the need to learn the Chinese language in order to be better qualified in the job market, Abbasov said.
Looking ahead, Abbasov expressed confidence that the two countries enjoy broad prospects for cooperation in economic and scientific fields. ■