Press Council: Uzbek Leader’s Visit Marks Turning Point in Baku–Tashkent Relations

Hajibay Heydarli, member of the Board of the Press Council of Azerbaijan, shared his insights on the significance of the recent state visit by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Azerbaijan, describing it as a turning point in the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations.

“From July 2 to 4, President Mirziyoyev undertook a state visit to Azerbaijan at the invitation of President Ilham Aliyev,” Heydarli noted. “This visit was marked by a series of high-level meetings and landmark events aimed at enhancing comprehensive cooperation,” The Caspian Post reports, citing Uzbek media.

One of the central moments of the visit was the second session of the Supreme Interstate Council, during which key agreements were signed in areas such as economy, transport, energy, and agriculture. The two sides also reaffirmed their ambition to boost bilateral trade volume to $1 billion by 2030, demonstrating a clear commitment to long-term economic integration.

The official inauguration of Uzbekistan’s new embassy building in Baku served as a powerful symbol of the deepening diplomatic relationship. Additionally, the groundbreaking ceremony for Uzbekistan Park in the Azerbaijani capital reflected growing people-to-people ties and a shared vision for lasting friendship.

A particularly historic aspect of the visit was President Mirziyoyev’s participation in the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) summit, held for the first time in Khankendi.

Heydarli noted that the choice of location carries deep symbolic weight for Azerbaijan, signaling the country’s progress in restoring and revitalizing the region both economically and socially.

“The president of Uzbekistan’s presence at the ECO summit reaffirmed Tashkent’s consistent and friendly stance in support of Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he added.

Heydarli stressed that Uzbekistan is not only a fraternal nation but also a key strategic partner for Azerbaijan. The relationship is evolving rapidly, with increasing political trust, economic collaboration, and cultural exchanges. He also highlighted the growing importance of cooperation between civil society organizations and media sectors in both countries, which reflects modern trends and meets the expectations of both nations' citizens.

“President Mirziyoyev’s visit was a historic confirmation of the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan,” Heydarli concluded. “It reaffirmed mutual trust, shared national interests, and a joint commitment to sovereignty-laying a robust foundation for future cooperation.”