In the context of growing global challenges and the transformation of international relations, the development of constructive dialogue between states, the strengthening of trust, and the expansion of humanitarian cooperation are of particular importance. Uzbekistan has consistently pursued an open and pragmatic foreign policy aimed at deepening cooperation with foreign partners, including in the cultural and public spheres.

In this context, the opinion of Akif Marifli, Director of the Heydar Aliyev Azerbaijan Cultural Center in Uzbekistan, on the Address of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan is of particular interest.

– The Address is an essential strategic document reflecting the path of sustainable development of Uzbekistan, strengthening social unity and consistent continuation of large-scale reforms. It highlights the need to expand international cooperation, deepen regional integration, and enhance humanitarian ties.

In this regard, the strong current relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Uzbekistan are of great importance. Due to the political will demonstrated by Presidents Ilham Aliyev and Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and to interstate relations based on mutual trust, cooperation between the two fraternal countries has reached the level of a strategic partnership. The solid political foundation established at the initiative of heads of state has created favorable conditions for the systematic, dynamic, and meaningful development of cooperation in the cultural and humanitarian fields.

The provisions put forward in the Address of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev on expanding regional cooperation, as well as a conceptual approach to Azerbaijan’s full-fledged participation in the Central Asia-Azerbaijan format.

In its activities, the Heydar Aliyev Azerbaijan Cultural Center consistently relies on the course of cultural diplomacy defined by President Ilham Aliyev and his strategic vision for developing ties with fraternal Uzbekistan. At the same time, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s attention to the role of culture, education, and youth in society’s development creates a favorable environment for implementing the center’s projects.

We are ready to continue contributing to the development of cultural and humanitarian cooperation between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan and to support initiatives aimed at deepening friendly and fraternal relations between our peoples.

Interviewed by Aziza Alimova, UzA