Baku, July 3, 2025 – The Europe Today: President Ilham Aliyev of the Republic of Azerbaijan and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of the Republic of Uzbekistan delivered press statements on Tuesday in Baku, underscoring the historic and strategic nature of bilateral ties between their nations during the Uzbek leader’s state visit to Azerbaijan.
The statements followed a series of high-level meetings, including the session of the Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan Interstate Council, aimed at deepening cooperation across political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian sectors.
President Ilham Aliyev’s Statement
President Aliyev welcomed President Mirziyoyev and his delegation in a spirit of brotherhood and mutual understanding, highlighting that the visit marked a significant milestone in the modern history of Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan relations. He emphasized the strategic and allied nature of the partnership, cemented by the Treaty on Allied Relations signed in Tashkent in 2022.
“We are proud to be official allies,” Aliyev said. “Our relations are reflected not only in mutual diplomatic support but also in the ambitious joint projects we are undertaking across various sectors.”
The Azerbaijani President congratulated Uzbekistan on its national football team’s qualification for the World Cup and praised the country’s successful reforms, growing international stature, and dynamic socio-economic development.
He noted ongoing cooperation in energy, agriculture, construction, and logistics, citing over 10 joint investment projects currently in the decision-making phase, supported by a $500 million joint investment fund. He also stressed the importance of coordinated infrastructure development in the context of the Middle Corridor transport initiative linking Central Asia to Europe via the Caspian.
Aliyev expressed deep appreciation for Uzbekistan’s contribution to the post-conflict reconstruction of Karabakh, especially the construction of a school in Fuzuli and a garment factory in Khankendi. “Uzbekistan was the first country to extend support to Karabakh, and this reflects the sincerity of our brotherly ties,” he stated.
The Azerbaijani leader also announced the opening of the new building of Uzbekistan’s Embassy in Baku and the future establishment of “Uzbekistan Park” in the heart of the Azerbaijani capital.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s Statement
In his address, President Mirziyoyev extended heartfelt gratitude for the warm hospitality and praised Azerbaijan’s achievements under President Aliyev’s leadership. “We feel at home here among our brothers,” he remarked.
Mirziyoyev lauded Azerbaijan’s rapid economic progress and modern infrastructure, noting that Uzbekistan draws valuable lessons from Azerbaijan’s reforms. He described the newly inaugurated Uzbek Embassy in Baku as a symbol of the strong political will and brotherly bond between the two nations.
The Uzbek leader highlighted ongoing cooperation in energy, mining, education, and culture, expressing satisfaction that all bilateral agreements are being implemented effectively. He also mentioned joint efforts to co-host future international sporting events, including a potential joint bid to host a FIFA World Championship category event.
“Today we have a very ambitious portfolio of joint projects with real outcomes,” Mirziyoyev said. “This visit is historic, and we are charting a clear course for long-term, mutually beneficial cooperation.”
He expressed particular gratitude for Azerbaijan’s support to Uzbek entrepreneurs and for fostering a conducive environment for their operations.
Strengthening Bilateral Brotherhood
Both leaders affirmed their commitment to further strengthening the Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan alliance through regular dialogue, high-level exchanges, and people-to-people ties. They emphasized that shared values and mutual trust form the foundation of their enduring partnership.
The visit is expected to significantly accelerate cooperation in trade, investment, transport, culture, and humanitarian sectors — reaffirming the strategic brotherhood between Baku and Tashkent.
