Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — From 2 to 4 July 2025, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, paid a state visit to Azerbaijan at the invitation of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev.

The head of state emphasized that the current visit and the second session of the High-Level Intergovernmental Council are taking place in the year marking the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Azerbaijan is a reliable ally and strategic partner of Uzbekistan. “We share common goals, views, and aspirations. Our peoples are bound by history, shared values, language, and culture, which have always served as the foundation for our brotherly and trust-based relations,” the President noted.

President Mirziyoyev underscored the importance of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, emphasizing its role in strengthening mutual understanding and bringing the peoples of the region closer together. “Never before in history have our relations reached such a high level as they have today,” he stated.

Several outcomes of the deepening Uzbekistan–Azerbaijan friendship, strategic partnership, and alliance—as well as the expansion of exchanges in priority humanitarian areas—were achieved:

First, during the visit, an intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in science, vocational training, and higher education was signed. This initiative will enable both countries to exchange best teaching practices, improve teaching methodologies, and develop joint academic programs.

Second, a landmark event this year was the first Uzbekistan–Azerbaijan Forum of University Rectors, held in Andijan, during which over 60 agreements were signed. The holding of regular rectors’ forums will be an important component in strengthening scientific and educational cooperation. These events will provide a sustainable platform for exchanging experience in curriculum development, implementing innovative teaching methods, aligning educational standards, and creating new and expanding existing academic mobility programs.

Third, one of the most effective forms of cultural communication is tourism. The Uzbek leader visited the “Sea Breeze” resort complex in Baku. During the tour, a presentation was given about the operations of this large-scale international tourist center located on the western shore of the Caspian Sea. The project represents a modern “Caspian Riviera.”

It is also worth noting that active preparations are underway for the development of an “Azerbaijan” park and a unique “Sea Breeze” tourist complex in Uzbekistan. The development of tourism is significantly expanding opportunities for citizens of both countries to become acquainted with each other’s traditions, rich and distinctive cultures, and magnificent landmarks.

Today, the number of Azerbaijani visitors to Uzbekistan has increased from 10,000 in 2022 to 18,000 in 2024. Meanwhile, the number of tourists from Uzbekistan to Azerbaijan has risen from 11,000 to 16,000 over the same period.

Fourth, a deeply symbolic event was the groundbreaking ceremony for the “Uzbekistan” park in Baku.

The new park will be located in the prestigious and rapidly developing “White City” district of the capital. The project envisions the creation of a large 4.5-hectare park complex showcasing Uzbekistan’s rich culture and traditions. It will feature reconstructions of architectural monuments from Uzbekistan, walking paths, green areas, a hotel, and various retail and entertainment facilities.

Overall, these initiatives represent a significant step toward deepening cultural and humanitarian cooperation between the two countries. This approach promotes not only the exchange of knowledge and advanced practices but also strengthens a shared identity based on respect for cultural diversity and shared values.

It can be stated with confidence that the outcomes of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s state visit to Azerbaijan will contribute to the further strengthening of allied relations and support the goals of sustainable development and prosperity for both brotherly countries and peoples.

Farizakhon Ramazanova,
Chief Research Fellow, Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan