The first meeting of the High Interstate Council of Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan was held in Tashkent at the "Kuksaroy" residence, chaired by Presidents Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Ilham Aliyev, according to the press service of the President of Uzbekistan.
The leaders of the two countries held narrow-format talks, discussing the deepening of strategic partnership between the countries.
President Mirziyoyev emphasized the historical significance of the visit, noting that in a short period, relations were elevated to the highest level of interstate interaction. The meeting culminated in the signing of the Treaty on Allied Relations.
Economic Cooperation and Ambitious Projects
The leaders agreed to declare the next year the Year of Economic Cooperation, adopting a program covering 20 priority areas.
Tasks were set to significantly increase trade turnover and move to a new phase of industrial cooperation, including projects in third countries.
The results of the business forum were highlighted, forming a project portfolio worth over $2 billion in energy, the chemical industry, textiles, and other sectors. The effectiveness of the Uzbek-Azerbaijani Investment Company as a tool to support joint projects was emphasized.
**Infrastructure Development and Interregional Cooperation**
The parties agreed to strengthen connectivity through the implementation of transport, energy, and other infrastructure projects. Plans include increasing the frequency of flights, simplifying transportation procedures, and introducing digital solutions.
An agreement was reached to adopt a Regional Cooperation Plan for 2025 and a Partnership Program for the development of industrial potential in the regions.
The next Regional Forum will be held in the city of Kokand.
Strengthening Cultural and Educational Ties
The leaders agreed to continue active exchanges in culture, education, healthcare, and sports. The titles of People's Artists were awarded to Farrukh Zakirov and Polad Bulbul oglu.
A proposal was made to launch a mechanism for regular meetings of rectors of leading universities and to hold a joint media forum.
The prospects for building tourism-business complexes in the capitals to boost mutual tourist flows and humanitarian exchanges were discussed.
International Cooperation and Implementation of Agreements
The heads of state exchanged views on international and regional agendas, discussing the continuation of dialogue within multilateral structures.
Following the meeting, a decision was made to develop a "roadmap" for the timely and high-quality implementation of the agreements reached, laying a solid foundation for the further development of the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
August 23, 2024