Baku: President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan emphasized the dynamic and deep-rooted alliance between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan in an exclusive interview with the Uzbekistan National News Agency, ahead of his upcoming state visit to Uzbekistan. The visit marks another milestone in a series of high-level exchanges aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, President Aliyev highlighted the shared history, culture, and values that form the bedrock of Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan relations, noting that these ties have reached the level of an alliance. He attributed the current strength of the relationship to the mutual respect and trust between himself and the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Miromonovich Mirziyoyev. The frequent reciprocal visits and close contacts over the past five years have further contributed to the dynamic development and strengthening of these ties.
President Aliyev's visit will be his third state visit to Uzbekistan in five years, underscoring the significance Azerbaijan places on its relationship with Uzbekistan. He praised Uzbekistan's rapid development in various sectors, including the economy, infrastructure, and education, under President Mirziyoyev's leadership. Aliyev also acknowledged the numerous agreements signed between the two countries, such as the 'Declaration on Further Strengthening of Strategic Partnership' and the 'Treaty on Allied Relations,' which have solidified their alliance.
The Supreme Interstate Council, established in August 2023, has become a crucial mechanism for deepening strategic partnerships and ensuring effective coordination in various spheres between the two nations. The Council has held two meetings to date, in Tashkent and Baku, reflecting the rapid development and continuity of political dialogue between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan.
In terms of economic cooperation, President Aliyev noted the impressive growth in trade and investment between the two countries. The Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan Investment Company, with a capital of $500 million, plays a significant role in financing joint projects. The Intergovernmental Commission, which has held 15 meetings, continues to facilitate discussions on trade and economic relations. Energy cooperation is also flourishing, with joint ventures such as Neftegaztexnologiya and Turan Energy AFEZCO contributing to the oil and gas industry.
Cultural diplomacy remains a vital area of cooperation, with joint cultural events and educational exchanges playing a significant role in strengthening ties. President Aliyev cited examples such as cultural festivals, the naming of the National Pedagogical University of Uzbekistan after Nizami Ganjavi, and the establishment of the 'Uzbekistan' Park in Baku. Educational collaboration is also thriving, with numerous students from both countries studying in each other's institutions.
President Aliyev reiterated the importance of cooperation within international platforms, particularly the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). He emphasized the shared vision of Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan to strengthen the Turkic world and foster unity on the global stage. This cooperation extends to initiatives in transport, logistics, and cultural heritage preservation, further solidifying their partnership.
As he prepares for his state visit, President Aliyev expressed his best wishes to the people of Uzbekistan on the occasion of their 35th independence anniversary, conveying his hopes for continued peace, prosperity, and collaboration between the two brotherly nations.