Tashkent: On August 23, the third meeting of the Supreme Interstate Council of Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan was held in Tashkent with the participation of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, APA reports.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the meeting commenced with a short film showcasing the friendship, trade, and investment cooperation between the two nations. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev welcomed the Azerbaijani delegation, emphasizing the shared history and cultural ties binding Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan. He praised the allied relations achieved between the two countries and congratulated President Aliyev on successful reforms in Azerbaijan.
President Mirziyoyev highlighted the strategic partnership and alliance between the two countries, noting the significant increase in mutual trade and the portfolio of joint projects exceeding $5 billion. He outlined priority areas for comprehensive cooperation, including regional and international collaboration, the goal of reaching a $1 billion trade turnover, and the deepening of industrial cooperation. The meeting also discussed the development of a joint fleet in the Caspian Sea and cultural exchanges to preserve shared heritage.
President Ilham Aliyev expressed gratitude to President Mirziyoyev for the hospitality and warm relations between the countries. He appreciated the video presentation that showcased ongoing projects and emphasized the concrete agenda for strengthening bilateral interaction. President Aliyev praised Uzbekistan for its international achievements and highlighted mutual support in bilateral and international formats.
The potential of the Joint Investment Fund was discussed, with President Aliyev noting the allocation of $160 million out of the $500 million fund. He highlighted significant investment opportunities and praised Uzbekistan's practical assistance in the restoration of Garabagh. The President emphasized the successful implementation of joint projects in various sectors, including the automotive industry, transportation, and transit.
The meeting also focused on the realization of the Zangazur Corridor, with plans to establish an international consortium for its development. President Aliyev mentioned the ongoing reconstruction and modernization of the Baku-Armenian border railway line and the significance of Azerbaijan's participation in regional integration efforts.
The summit underscored the commitment of both nations to strengthen regional consolidation and cooperation, with Tashkent and Baku playing pivotal roles in interregional integration. The discussions also included proposals for enhancing cultural ties and promoting joint development initiatives.
The meeting concluded with President Aliyev acknowledging the symbolic significance of Azerbaijan's participation in the Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asian countries, facilitated by Uzbekistan's leadership. Both leaders expressed their commitment to implementing impactful projects and furthering the partnership between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan.