Turkmenbashi: Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, Chairman of the Halk Maslakhaty of Turkmenistan, and Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, convened in Turkmenbashi to deliver a joint press statement following a high-level meeting focused on enhancing trilateral relations.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov initiated the press statement, emphasizing the historical significance of the meeting for multilateral relations in political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian spheres. He highlighted the countries’ commitment to open dialogue and cooperation within international organizations to enhance peace and stability. A focal point of discussion was the potential for deepening strategic partnerships in the gas sector and economic cooperation, particularly in the transport sector, with plans to revive the Great Silk Road through enhanced connectivity between Europe and Asia.
Next, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan expressed gratitude to Turkmenistan for hosting the meeting and highlighted the importance of sustained cooperation amid global challenges. He emphasized the need for developing transit corridors and modern logistics infrastructure, particularly utilizing the ports of Turkmenbashi and Baku. Energy cooperation and trade turnover were also key topics, with agreements to stimulate mutual supplies and implement new investment projects. Mirziyoyev proposed a joint program for tourism and cultural exchanges to further strengthen ties.
President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan concluded the statements, expressing appreciation for the hospitality and cooperation shown by Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. He acknowledged the symbolic agreements, such as the sister city partnership between Arkadag and Fuzuli, as testaments to the enduring brotherhood among the nations. Aliyev highlighted joint projects, including a mosque construction in Fuzuli and the establishment of a school, as concrete examples of the collaborative spirit. He reiterated the commitment to a trilateral cooperation format, focusing on transport, logistics, power, and cultural relations.
The leaders underscored the historic nature of the meeting and expressed optimism for the emerging multi-faceted cooperation aimed at peace and partnership in the region.