The Central Asia Factor in Azerbaijan's Foreign Policy: Relations with Uzbekistan Hold Special Significance

Azerbaijan has identified the development of ties with Central Asian states as one of the important priorities in its foreign policy. In this direction, relations with Uzbekistan hold special significance. Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan are united by both interstate interests and historical, cultural, and spiritual ties that have stood the test of centuries.

As reported by BAKU.WS, this was stated to Oxu.Az by Milli Majlis deputy Nigar Mammadova.

She noted that today Azerbaijani-Uzbek relations are experiencing the highest stage of their development.

"Relations between the two fraternal countries have become both more intensive and more substantive in recent years, transforming into a multifaceted model of strategic cooperation. The third state visit of President Ilham Aliyev to Uzbekistan, which took place today, also confirms this. The visit is taking place at the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev; summit-level negotiations between the leaders, as well as the III session of the Supreme Interstate Council, are planned in Tashkent. It can be said with confidence that this visit will also mark the beginning of yet another new stage in bilateral relations.

Today, a reliable foundation has been formed for strengthening political relations between the two countries. It is precisely on this solid foundation that relations have risen from the level of strategic partnership to the level of alliance. The high political trust that has formed between the presidents of Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, regular contacts and mutual visits are an important driving force of this process. Important documents signed during mutual visits have expanded the legal framework of relations and identified new areas of cooperation. The state visits of President Ilham Aliyev to Uzbekistan in 2024 and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Azerbaijan in 2025 became important milestones in the development of bilateral relations. The agreements reached within the framework of these visits made it possible to fill the political partnership with practical substance.

The "Declaration on Deepening Strategic Partnership" and the "Treaty on Allied Relations" are indicators of a new qualitative stage in relations between the two countries. The establishment of the Supreme Interstate Council has also strengthened the institutional foundations of political dialogue and created an important mechanism for determining the priorities of long-term cooperation.

Thus, Baku and Tashkent are bringing their positions on regional and international processes closer together, demonstrating mutual support," the parliamentarian emphasized.

According to the deputy, the political alliance has also created favorable opportunities for expanding economic ties:

"Economic cooperation between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan has acquired a broader scope than traditional trade relations, encompassing investments, industrial