Dushanbe: President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan delivered a speech at the limited-format meeting of the CIS Heads of State Council in Dushanbe, emphasizing the significance of cultural and athletic collaboration among member states.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the meeting, held on October 10, saw President Aliyev expressing gratitude to the President of Tajikistan, Emomali Sharipovich Rahmon, for his hospitality and the successful organization of the event.
In his speech, President Aliyev congratulated Tajikistan on its progress under President Rahmon’s leadership, particularly noting the rapid urban development of Dushanbe. He highlighted the strong bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Tajikistan, which are rooted in brotherhood, friendship, and mutual support, and expressed optimism for future cooperation.
President Aliyev also addressed the importance of strengthening humanitarian cooperation within the CIS. He thanked the CIS heads of state for supporting the nomination of Lachin, a city in Azerbaijan’s East Zangezur region, as the Cultural Capital of the CIS for the year. He described the transformation of Lachin from a war-torn area to a thriving city following its liberation from Armenian occupation.
Furthermore, President Aliyev highlighted the successful hosting of the 3rd CIS Games in Azerbaijan, which took place from September 28 to October 8. The event, centered in the historic city of Ganja and extended to six other cities, brought together over 1,600 athletes from 13 countries. Such events, he noted, foster friendship and cooperation within the CIS, promoting relationships based on equality and respect.
The limited-format meeting of the CIS Heads of State Council continues in Dushanbe, with President Aliyev actively participating in the discussions.