23.08.2024

In a press conference, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan and President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan shared their assessments of the recent negotiations. President Mirziyoyev expressed deep satisfaction, highlighting that President Aliyev's state visit to Uzbekistan marked a historic milestone in the long-standing friendly relations between the two nations.

Mirziyoyev emphasized that a key outcome of the visit was the signing of a Treaty on Allied Relations, signifying the beginning of a new chapter in strengthening bilateral interactions and affirming both parties' commitment to comprehensive development of multifaceted partnerships.

The visit also saw the inaugural meeting of the Supreme Intergovernmental Council, established to serve as an effective mechanism for developing and implementing new proposals to deepen allied relations.

The President noted that this year had seen numerous meetings of the Intergovernmental Commission, policy and security consultations, parliamentary meetings, regional forums, and various cultural and business events, all contributing to the success of the summit.

Uzbekistan expressed genuine joy over Azerbaijan's significant achievements. President Mirziyoyev praised the dynamic growth in Azerbaijan's economy, industry, and standard of living, and congratulated Aliyev on the restoration of Azerbaijan's territorial integrity and the return of its historic lands.

Special attention was given to the reconstruction of Karabakh, where social infrastructure and production facilities are being actively developed. Uzbekistan remains committed to supporting Azerbaijan in this noble endeavor.

“Azerbaijan is our important strategic partner and ally. We share common historical roots, centuries-old friendship, religion, culture, and traditions. All these elements form a solid foundation for deepening comprehensive cooperation,” emphasized Mirziyoyev.

During the talks, the Presidents covered a wide range of multifaceted relations, including trade, industrial cooperation, energy, transportation, agriculture, and culture. They agreed to strengthen political dialogue, provide mutual support on multilateral platforms, continue active contacts at parliamentary, governmental, sectoral, and regional levels.

The importance of expanding trade and economic interaction, which shows steady growth, was underscored. It was decided to declare the next year as the Year of Economic Cooperation between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan and to adopt a program focusing on 20 key areas.

A fruitful business forum was held prior to the summit, resulting in the signing of numerous contracts and agreements for significant projects such as hotel construction, textile clusters, a sewing factory, and building materials production.      

Joint participation in prospective projects in third countries was also noted, with successful activity from a joint investment company established to advance such projects. Special attention was given to developing transportation connectivity, including through the Trans-Caspian Corridor.

The leaders agreed to expedite the implementation of a large-scale regional project for producing "green" energy and exporting it through Azerbaijan to Europe. A “roadmap” for interregional cooperation will be adopted, and another Regional Forum will be held in Kokand.

They committed to expanding cultural, youth, and informational exchanges, as well as collaboration in science, education, and sports. The tradition of holding mutual Culture and Cinema Days, exhibitions, and creative group tours will continue, now extending beyond capitals to regions with substantial populations.

In recognition of their contributions, Presidents Mirziyoyev and Aliyev decided to award the esteemed title of People's Artist to legendary stars Farukh Zakirov and Polad Bulbuloglu from both countries.

In conclusion, President Mirziyoyev thanked his Azerbaijani counterpart for supporting the proposals and initiatives, expressing confidence that the productive talks will give a powerful boost to the further development of Uzbek-Azerbaijani relations and strengthen the bonds of friendship and alliance between the brotherly nations.