Turkmenbashi: An expanded meeting took place between Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, Chairman of Halk Maslakhaty of Turkmenistan, in the city of Turkmenbashi. The meeting aimed to enhance the cooperation between the two nations across various sectors.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov welcomed President Aliyev and expressed gratitude for the hospitality he received during his visit to Azerbaijan in July. He highlighted the deep historical ties between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan, emphasizing the shared traditions that have fostered strong political, diplomatic, trade, and cultural relations. Berdimuhamedov expressed optimism about the future of Turkmen-Azerbaijani relations, citing the potential for increased trade and economic cooperation, especially in energy, transport, and the textile industry. He also mentioned the importance of cultural and humanitarian exchanges, including mutual Days of Culture and events in education and tourism.
President Ilham Aliyev reciprocated the warm sentiments, expressing gratitude for the invitation and hospitality extended by Turkmenistan. He acknowledged the historical significance of their recent meetings and reiterated the shared cultural and ethnic roots that unite the Turkmen and Azerbaijani peoples. Aliyev praised the development efforts in Turkmenistan, particularly in Avaza, and highlighted the successful cooperation in areas such as energy, transport, logistics, and cultural relations.
The leaders discussed the East-West transport corridor, which passes through both countries, and emphasized the benefits of coordinated efforts to enhance this vital link connecting Europe with the Far East. They also expressed satisfaction with the current political relations and the mutual support provided within international organizations. Azerbaijan’s role as a co-author of the UN General Assembly resolution on ‘Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan’ was noted as a testament to the strong bilateral friendship.
Additionally, the meeting addressed recent regional developments, with the Chairman of the People’s Council of Turkmenistan congratulating Azerbaijan on the normalization of relations with Armenia. President Aliyev highlighted the potential benefits of a new transport corridor connecting Azerbaijan’s mainland to its Nakhchivan region through Armenia, which could boost the region’s transport and transit capabilities.
The leaders also discussed the potential of a transport corridor involving Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. They underscored the significance of the trilateral meeting held among the three nations, expressing confidence that it would enhance cooperation and partnership.
The meeting concluded with discussions about the joint participation of Turkmenistan’s ‘Akhal-Teke’ and Azerbaijan’s Karabakh horses in international festivals, further symbolizing the cultural ties between the two countries.