Baku: President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized the strategic importance of Azerbaijan as a bridge between Central Asia and Europe during his address at the High-Level Meeting titled "Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan and Europe - Cooperation for Common Development." He noted the dynamic development of Uzbek-Azerbaijani relations, underscored by the signing of a Treaty on Allied Relations and the active functioning of the Supreme Interstate Council.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, President Mirziyoyev expressed the collective commitment with the European Union and other partners to enhance transport, logistics, and energy corridors, aiming to position the region as a pivotal hub between East and West. He commended the efforts of President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan in fostering regional cooperation and congratulated Azerbaijan on the recent Trilateral Joint Declaration with Armenia, mediated by the United States.

President Mirziyoyev also mentioned Uzbekistan's ongoing reforms and achievements, highlighting the region's role in offering stability, trust, and development to the international community amidst challenging times. He praised the Nizami Ganjavi International Center for its role in promoting the legacy of Azerbaijani thinker Nizami Ganjavi and for hosting the Global Baku Forum, a platform for addressing international and regional challenges.

The meeting provided an opportunity to showcase Central Asia's growing cooperation and potential, with discussions focusing on enhancing interregional connectivity and the potential of Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan.