Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Zhaparov made press statements on July 31, welcoming each other and expressing mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Zhaparov highlighted the significant progress in Kyrgyz-Azerbaijani relations, noting that their political dialogue has reached its highest level. He emphasized the importance of regular contacts and mutual trust as a basis for further enhancing their allied relations. Under the co-chairmanship of both presidents, the 3rd meeting of the Interstate Council took place and resulted in a signed protocol, reviewing key areas of bilateral interaction and outlining future partnership steps.
A pivotal outcome of the discussions was the signing of the Treaty on Allied Relations, marking a new phase in cooperation between the two nations. A comprehensive package of bilateral documents was also signed, covering areas such as energy, transport, cybersecurity, education, financial market regulation, and the circulation of precious metals. Both leaders acknowledged the steady development in trade and economic cooperation, with plans to continue creating favorable conditions for expanding business ties and implementing joint investment projects.
The discussions also focused on developing transport corridors and effectively using the transit potential of both countries, with Azerbaijan playing a key role in the Middle Corridor connecting Central Asia with European markets. They also explored promising areas of cooperation in the energy sector. The inauguration of the first five-star hotel, built by the Azerbaijani side on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, was highlighted as a symbol of strong friendship and a significant contribution to developing tourism potential.
President Aliyev expressed gratitude for the invitation and hospitality extended during his state visit. He noted the great responsibility that comes with allied relations and expressed readiness to support each other across various platforms, including international forums and economic spheres. He announced an agreement to double the capital of the Joint Azerbaijan-Kyrgyzstan investment fund to $200 million, with the potential for further increases.
In addition to economic projects, both leaders emphasized cultural and historical ties. They participated in opening the Baku Hotel, a collaborative venture, and commemorated the reconstruction of Garabagh, with Kyrgyz contributions like the Manas school. They also unveiled a monument to Chingiz Aitmatov in Baku and recalled the opening of the Kyrgyz-Azerbaijani Friendship Park in Bishkek, highlighting the deep cultural connections between the two nations.
Lastly, President Aliyev extended an invitation to President Zhaparov for another state visit to Azerbaijan, underscoring the mutual desire to deepen their allied relations.