Baku: The state visit of President Ilham Aliyev to Uzbekistan has provided new strategic momentum to the bilateral relationship between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, linking it to the broader regional and global framework of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). This development is set against the backdrop of evolving regional realities, which are fostering stronger institutional coordination between the two nations across cultural, historical, political, and economic dimensions.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, during his visit, President Aliyev held a one-on-one meeting with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The two leaders also participated in the third meeting of the Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan Supreme Interstate Council in Tashkent, as well as groundbreaking and inauguration ceremonies for various projects in Uzbekistan. These high-level engagements highlight the mutual benefits and constructive foreign policies rooted in national interests, creating favorable conditions for expanding their international influence.
A significant outcome of the visit was the signing of the 'Treaty on Eternal Friendship between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Uzbekistan.' This treaty is seen as crucial for ensuring the continuity of friendly and brotherly ties, elevating the strategic partnership to a new political and legal level. It is also an important step towards accelerating integration between Central Asia and the South Caucasus.
The visit further emphasized the strategic importance of the Zangezur Corridor, with President Aliyev noting active efforts toward its realization. This corridor is expected to enhance the Eurasian logistics network, offering new opportunities for Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan in geopolitics across Eurasia.
Furthermore, the visit reinforced Azerbaijan's commitment to integrating bilateral ties within the framework of the OTS. This includes exploring new areas of cooperation and advancing strategic agendas, with a focus on viewing Azerbaijan and Central Asia as a unified geopolitical and geoeconomic region.
In conclusion, President Aliyev's visit signifies a shift in the strategic vision of Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, viewing South Caucasus and Central Asia as a single geopolitical entity. This reshaping of regional interests expands their strategic scope, enhances transport connectivity, and aligns policies on security issues across the Eurasian logistics network.