Dushanbe: President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan addressed the limited-format meeting of the CIS Heads of State Council, which took place in Dushanbe, delivering a speech that underscored the significance of cultural and sports collaboration among member states.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, President Aliyev began by expressing his appreciation to President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan for hosting the event and applauded Tajikistan’s progress under his leadership. He noted the rapid development of Dushanbe and extended his congratulations on the city’s urban achievements.
President Aliyev highlighted the strong bilateral relations between Tajikistan and Azerbaijan, rooted in brotherhood, friendship, and mutual support. He pointed to the potential for further growth in these relations, particularly in the humanitarian sphere. He expressed gratitude to the CIS heads of state for endorsing the city of Lachin in Azerbaijan’s East Zangezur region as the Cultural Capital of the CIS for the current year. He described the transformation of Lachin, emphasizing its rapid revival following liberation from Armenian occupation and its newfound status as a livable city.
The President also referenced the 3rd CIS Games held in Azerbaijan from September 28 to October 8, centered in the historic city of Ganja. The event saw participation from over 1,600 athletes from 13 countries, including CIS member states and guest nations. The games, hosted across multiple Azerbaijani cities, aimed to strengthen bonds of friendship and cooperation within the CIS, fostering relationships based on equality and mutual respect.