Mirziyoyev and Aliyev hold meeting of the Supreme Interstate Council

The President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, held a closed-door meeting followed by the second session of the Supreme Interstate Council at the Zagulba residence in Baku, the press service of the Uzbek Presidency reported.

The leaders discussed further strengthening the friendship, strategic partnership, and alliance between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan, as well as expanding cooperation and exchanges in priority sectors.

Mirziyoyev highlighted that the state visit and the Supreme Interstate Council session coincide with the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

“Our relations have never been at such a high level in history,” stated the Uzbek President.

Both presidents noted the rapid development of multifaceted cooperation at all levels.

“Yesterday, the first Interparliamentary Forum was held in Khiva. The Intergovernmental Commission meeting and the Forum of Regions took place effectively in Baku. Recently, the first Rectors’ Forum was organized in Andijan, with over 60 agreements signed. The Azerbaijani Shirvan ensemble won the Grand Prix at the Khiva Bakhshi Festival,” the report added.

It was also noted that during this year of economic cooperation, trade volume increased by 25 percent, with the project portfolio reaching \$4 billion and approximately 300 joint ventures currently operating.

During the visit, the groundbreaking ceremony for Uzbekistan Park in Baku was held, and the new building of Uzbekistan’s embassy in Azerbaijan was inaugurated.

Both sides agreed to continue practical cooperation at parliamentary, governmental, ministerial, and regional levels. They emphasized the importance of mutual support within international organizations.

“The possibilities of increasing annual trade and investment volumes to \$1 billion were discussed in detail. A separate Cooperation Program is being adopted, encompassing projects in industry, infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, tourism, banking, and other areas,” the statement said.

The expansion of the joint investment company’s activities was underscored, along with support for new cooperation formats such as the Council of Entrepreneurs and the Forum of Industrial and Economic Zones.

Special attention was given to partnership in the transport and communications sectors, with discussions on projects supporting the development of the Middle Corridor.

“It was noted with satisfaction that Uzbek cargo transported via this corridor increased by 25 percent, surpassing 1 million tons. Additionally, since March, the transition to electronic permits for cargo transportation has been implemented,” the report confirmed.

Furthermore, it was agreed to expedite the preparation of a joint project for exporting electricity to Europe.

The parties also agreed to organize a series of joint cultural and youth events in the fall to celebrate the anniversary of diplomatic relations appropriately.

The heads of state exchanged views on international and regional matters.

“The meeting included reports from the co-chairs of the Intergovernmental Commission and the ministers of transport, energy, and culture on the negotiation agenda. A ‘road map’ will be adopted based on the meeting’s outcomes,” the press service concluded.

It is recalled that earlier, an official welcoming ceremony took place at the Zagulba residence for President Mirziyoyev, who is on a state visit to Azerbaijan.

On July 3, Presidents Mirziyoyev and Aliyev will continue their dialogue in Azerbaijan’s Karabakh region, visiting the joint garment factory in Khankendi and the historical and architectural complex “Imorat” in Agdam.