At a time of rapid geopolitical change and growing need for regional solidarity, the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan is steadily strengthening and becoming richer in content. Both states are demonstrating in practice that cooperation can be built on the foundations of mutual respect, pragmatism, and the unity of fraternal peoples. Moreover, they have become a vivid example of cooperation aimed at regional stability, openness, and peace.

The second meeting of the Supreme Interstate Council, held on July 2, 2025, at the Zagulba Residence in Baku, marked the beginning of a new stage in relations between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s state visit to Azerbaijan was a symbol of mutual trust and strategic support.

The Head of State particularly emphasized that the visit and the Council meeting were being held within the framework of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. This event is not only symbolic but also of practical significance. Unprecedented closeness has been formed between Tashkent and Baku in the political, economic, humanitarian, and transport spheres. As the President noted, “never in history have our relations been at such a high level as they are today”. Numerous facts and results confirm these words.

First, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan share common goals and perspectives. The two peoples are united by history, similar values, language, and culture, which have always served to strengthen the foundation of brotherhood and mutual trust.

Second, political trust is being reinforced through regular interstate contacts. In recent months, several key events took place: the first Inter-Parliamentary Forum in Khiva, a Rectors’ Forum in Andijan, the signing of more than 60 agreements, and the Intergovernmental Commission and a Regional Forum in Baku. All these demonstrate that cooperation processes now involve various levels, from central authorities to regions and universities.

Third, the economic agenda became the central theme of the meeting. The year 2025 has been declared the Year of Economic Cooperation in relations between the two states. Last year, trade between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan increased by 25 percent. Currently, nearly 300 joint enterprises with Uzbek capital are operating in Azerbaijan. The portfolio of investment projects has reached $4 billion, which is only the beginning. In the coming years, trade and investment volumes are planned to reach $1 billion annually.

At the meeting, a special Cooperation Program covering the sectors of industry, infrastructure, agriculture, tourism, healthcare, and finance was presented. In addition, the initiative to activate the activities of the joint investment company, as well as to establish a Business Council and an Industrial-Economic Zones Forum, was supported. This demonstrates the parties’ commitment not only to traditional trade but also to the development of high technologies, sustainable development, and value-added chains.

Among the signed documents, the Industrial Cooperation Program for 2025-2026, the Action Plan for the Agro-Industrial Complex and Food Security, and the Program to increase trade turnover to $1 billion by 2030 were of particular importance.

One of the most significant achievements of the meeting was the agreement to accelerate the joint project for exporting Uzbekistan’s green energy to Europe. This project could become an essential part of a comprehensive green transition strategy in Central Asia and the South Caucasus, enhancing the region’s overall energy independence and environmental security.

Equally important is the development of transport links within the framework of the Trans-Caspian (Middle) Transport Corridor. Since the spring of 2025, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan have introduced an electronic permit system for freight transportation, which has increased cargo volumes by 25 percent and enabled the transport of more than one million tons of goods annually. The Middle Corridor is becoming a strategic artery linking Central Asia, the South Caucasus, Türkiye, and Europe. In the future, this route could serve as a major logistics pathway between East and West, bypassing geopolitically unstable regions.

In addition, a cooperation protocol was signed in the fields of maritime transport and shipbuilding on the Caspian Sea, opening new opportunities for expanding naval logistics.

Agreements in the humanitarian sphere also demonstrate that the strategic partnership is focused not only on pragmatic interests but also on issues of sustainable and inclusive development. Intergovernmental agreements were signed on cooperation in environmental protection, science, vocational, and higher education. Separate documents on the social security of citizens for 2025-2027 were also adopted.

This fully corresponds to the measures being taken by the two states to implement the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In this way, a model of regional leadership in social policy is being created, with environmental protection, education, and social support issues placed at the forefront.

Cultural ties are also becoming more active. In particular, Azerbaijan’s “Shirvon” ensemble won the Grand Prix at the International Bakhshi Art Festival in Khiva. Throughout 2025, numerous joint events within the framework of youth and cultural exchanges are planned, which are of particular importance in this anniversary year.

The construction of the Uzbekistan Park in Baku and the opening of the new building of the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan were significant symbolic steps. In response, the construction of an Azerbaijan Park and the “Sea Breeze” tourist complex is planned in Uzbekistan. These initiatives carry cultural and diplomatic significance, reflecting respect for the fraternal nation and the desire to strengthen the spiritual closeness of the two peoples within the urban landscape.

On the international and regional agenda, the leaders of the two countries once again confirmed their unity of views and intention to support each other in the global arena. Uzbekistan firmly upholds the principle that all conflicts and pressing issues must be resolved solely through peaceful means and diplomacy. Azerbaijan’s support for this approach further strengthens the two states’ standard position within international organizations.

In conclusion, it should be emphasized that during the second meeting of the Supreme Interstate Council, a package of documents covering all key areas, from the economy to culture, from transport to social policy, was reviewed and adopted. The signed roadmap will serve as an essential guide for implementing the adopted decisions. These steps will deepen the strategic partnership and lay the foundation for achieving our shared goal of sustainable development and prosperity.

Aktam KHAITOV,

Leader of the UzLiDeP faction in the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis