SOFAZ expands cooperation with Japanese financial institutions

The State Oil Fund of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ) is strengthening its cooperation with Japanese financial institutions.

According to Report, this was highlighted during a business visit to Japan by a SOFAZ delegation led by Executive Director Israfil Mammadov. The main goals of the visit were to deepen partnerships with financial institutions in Japan, analyze the financial market environment, and explore new investment opportunities.

As part of the visit, the delegation first met with Koji Nakamura, Executive Director for Monetary Policy and Financial Markets at the Bank of Japan. Discussions focused on Japan's monetary policy, economic outlook, and the effects of global economic trends and regional developments.

The delegation also met with Tadashi Maeda, Chairman of the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC). The sides reviewed JBIC's activities in Azerbaijan, previously implemented projects, and future collaboration prospects. They emphasized the importance of continuing joint investment initiatives.

Another key meeting took place during the delegation's visit to the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Discussions centered on recent institutional reforms in Japan's capital markets, as well as the importance of improving transparency and strengthening corporate governance.

The delegation also held talks with the leadership of Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group, one of SOFAZ's long-standing partners. The sides reviewed their current cooperation and discussed potential new areas of mutual interest.

Additional meetings were held with executives from Mizuho Financial Group, PGIM, and PAG Real Assets. These discussions focused on expanding cooperation in various investment sectors and evaluating new partnership opportunities.

As part of the visit, the delegation also toured Azerbaijan's national pavilion under construction for the EXPO 2025 exhibition in Osaka. SOFAZ representatives were briefed on the pavilion"s concept and gave a presentation on the fund's operations, financial and investment experience, and its role in ensuring macroeconomic stability and directing national wealth toward sustainable development.