Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov delivered press statements on June 22, APA reports. The President of Azerbaijan made the statement first, welcoming President Berdimuhamedov and expressing gratitude for his visit, which aims to strengthen the friendly and brotherly relations between the two nations.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev highlighted the discussions held during both expanded and one-on-one meetings, covering numerous issues of bilateral cooperation. He expressed gratitude to Turkmenistan and its leaders for assisting in the restoration of Garabagh, particularly for initiating the construction of a mosque in Fuzuli. President Aliyev emphasized the historical ties, cultural connections, and spiritual bonds between the two countries, noting recent cultural exchanges and the twin city status of Baku and Ashgabat, as well as Arkadag and Fuzuli.
President Aliyev also mentioned Azerbaijan's accession as a full member of the Consultative Meeting of Heads of State of Central Asia, recognizing the importance of regional connectivity and transport-logistics cooperation. He stressed the strategic nature of transport and logistics cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan, aiming to increase cargo flows and attract cargo from third countries. Additionally, he acknowledged the significant mineral and energy resources of both nations and their efforts to collaborate in these areas.
President Berdimuhamedov expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and highlighted the dynamic and progressive development of bilateral relations based on equality and mutual benefit. He reaffirmed Turkmenistan's readiness to cooperate actively within international and regional organizations and emphasized trade and economic cooperation. Priority areas include energy, transport, and the chemical and textile industries, with a focus on creating transport and transit corridors along the East-West route.
Cultural and humanitarian ties were also a focal point, with both countries committed to expanding contacts between cultural figures and hosting annual Days of Culture. President Berdimuhamedov appreciated the significant bilateral agreements signed during the meetings and acknowledged President Aliyev's personal contribution to strengthening ties. He expressed gratitude for the gift of the "Dostlug" oil tanker, symbolizing the fraternal relations between the two nations.
In conclusion, President Berdimuhamedov emphasized the importance of cooperation between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan, rooted in centuries-old traditions of good-neighborliness, common history, culture, language, and spiritual values. He expressed confidence in Azerbaijan's progress and prosperity, wishing its people peace and well-being.