Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov delivered press statements on June 22, focusing on the enhancement of bilateral relations and cooperation in various sectors. President Aliyev began the statements by welcoming President Berdimuhamedov on his state visit to Azerbaijan, expressing gratitude for the visit and optimism for strengthened relations.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, President Aliyev highlighted the extensive discussions held in both expanded and one-on-one meetings, covering various aspects of bilateral cooperation and partnership development. He expressed gratitude towards Turkmenistan for its support in the restoration of Garabagh, particularly noting the initiative to build a mosque in the city of Fuzuli. Aliyev emphasized the historical, cultural, and spiritual bonds between the two nations, mentioning recent cultural exchanges and the significance of Baku and Ashgabat as twin cities.
President Aliyev also acknowledged Turkmenistan's support for Azerbaijan's full membership in the Consultative Meeting of Heads of State of Central Asia, highlighting the importance of regional connectivity and transport-logistics cooperation. He stressed the strategic nature of transport and logistics collaboration and the potential for increased cargo flows, underscoring the importance of political cooperation in achieving these goals. Additionally, Aliyev congratulated Turkmenistan on its socio-economic achievements and reaffirmed Azerbaijan's support for Turkmenistan's policy of neutrality.
President Berdimuhamedov, in his press statement, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and excellent conditions for joint work. He noted the positive assessment of bilateral relations and reaffirmed the commitment to active cooperation within international and regional organizations. He highlighted trade and economic cooperation, identifying energy, transport, and several industries as priority areas. An agreement was reached to develop transport and transit corridors along the East-West route.
Berdimuhamedov emphasized the importance of cultural and humanitarian ties, mentioning future plans for cultural exchanges and the signing of significant bilateral documents. He acknowledged President Aliyev's contribution to strengthening bilateral ties and expressed appreciation for the gift of the "Dostlug" oil tanker, symbolizing fraternal relations between the two nations. In conclusion, Berdimuhamedov conveyed well-wishes to Azerbaijan, emphasizing the shared history, culture, and values linking the two countries.