On July 31, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Japarov delivered joint statements to the press following high-level talks.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the leaders highlighted the deepening cooperation between the two nations, marking a new phase in their bilateral relations.
President Sadyr Japarov's statement
President Japarov welcomed President Aliyev to Kyrgyzstan, expressing gratitude for the state visit. He emphasized that the political dialogue between Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan is currently at its highest level. "This historic event truly lays the foundation for a new stage of Kyrgyzstan-Azerbaijan cooperation," Japarov stated, noting the signing of a treaty on allied relations. He also highlighted the importance of the Middle Corridor, which connects Central Asia to European markets via Azerbaijan, and announced the inauguration of a five-star hotel built by Azerbaijan on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul.
President Ilham Aliyev's statement
President Ilham Aliyev thanked President Japarov for the invitation and the traditional hospitality. He underscored the responsibility that comes with allied relations, stating, "We will continue to support each other in all initiatives—both on international platforms and in the economic, trade, and security spheres." President Aliyev announced that the Azerbaijan-Kyrgyz Investment Fund's capital would be doubled to $200 million to support joint projects. He also recalled the joint efforts in the reconstruction of Garabagh, including the opening of a school named after "Manas" in the Aghdam district, symbolizing the deep cultural and historical ties between the two nations.
Context and Significance
The state visit of President Ilham Aliyev to Kyrgyzstan underscores the growing strategic partnership between the two Turkic states. Both nations are active members of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) and have been steadily increasing their economic, cultural, and transport cooperation. The strengthening of the "Middle Corridor" (Trans-Caspian International Transport Route) remains a central pillar of this alliance, as it serves as a vital logistics link between Central Asia and Europe, bypassing traditional northern routes. The increase in the investment fund and the focus on joint infrastructure projects reflect a long-term commitment to mutual economic development and regional stability.
