TASHKENT: In an interview with the international electronic magazine “Bright Uzbekistan”, Azerbaijani Economy Minister Mikail Jabbarov touched upon cooperation within the Organization of Turkic States, including partnership with Uzbekistan.
The friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan are based on the common history, traditions, culture and values of the two peoples. Such deep-rooted ties serve as a solid foundation for further development of cooperation.
Mutual visits of heads of state and high-level meetings are raising partnership to a new, higher level and encouraging the consistent development of stable, mutually beneficial cooperation.
Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan cooperation is multifaceted and covers various areas and sectors. Representatives of the business circles of our countries have established successful contacts in various fields. For example, the achievements in the automotive industry are significant. In May 2023, the foundation stone of a localized automobile production plant was laid in the Khajigabul industrial district by Uzavtosanoat and Azermash CP Closed Joint Stock Companies. The total investment cost of this project exceeds $60 million.
In general, Azerbaijan pays special attention to expanding economic ties with Uzbekistan, expressing serious interest in cooperation in such important areas as transport, industrial cooperation, energy, textiles, mining, chemical industry, and electrical engineering. Today, many joint projects are being implemented in these areas.
Most importantly, there is ample opportunity for both sides to further expand the scope of existing cooperation. For example, it is promising for Uzbek companies to operate in the Agdam and Araz Valley industrial parks, as well as the Alat free economic zone.
The activities of the Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan Investment Fund play an important role in deepening economic ties within the framework of the Turkic States Organization. Measures are currently being taken to implement new joint projects and expand business cooperation.
The “green energy bridge” initiative, starting from Central Asia and extending through Azerbaijan to Europe, shows the strategic potential of our countries in the field of transport and logistics.
Transit and logistics cooperation can be developed during the expansion of the “Middle Corridor”. By effectively using the opportunity of Baku International Seaport, promoting joint investment initiatives along this corridor, establishing exchange of experience and innovation, deepening cooperation in the direction of digitization is beneficial for both sides. –Agencies