Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan kick off first joint parliamentary forum to boost collaboration

On July 1, 2025, the ancient city of Khiva in Uzbekistan welcomed the opening of the very first Uzbek-Azerbaijani Interparliamentary Forum, marking a significant milestone in the deepening partnership between the two nations.

The forum brought together the leaders of the legislative bodies from both countries, alongside numerous deputies, to discuss expanding and strengthening bilateral cooperation, Caliber.Az reports, referring to domestic media.

Sahiba Gafarova, Speaker of Azerbaijan’s Milli Majlis (Parliament), highlighted the forum’s historic importance as the first joint parliamentary event organised by Azerbaijan and another nation’s legislature. She reflected on the 30 years since Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan established diplomatic ties, noting that their relationship has since blossomed into a dynamic and strategic partnership.

“The positions of our countries align closely on regional and international issues,” Gafarova said, “and this is evident in the strong mutual support we provide each other within global organisations.”

She also emphasised Uzbekistan’s firm and consistent support for Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity: “The Azerbaijani people have felt the brotherly solidarity of the Uzbek people throughout difficult times — during the occupation of our territories by Armenia, through the Second Karabakh War, and in the ongoing post-war period.”

Echoing these sentiments, Tanzila Narbayeva, Chairwoman of the Senate of Uzbekistan’s Oliy Majlis, praised the enduring bonds that unite the two nations. “Our relationship is founded on shared historical, cultural, and spiritual values,” she said. “This foundation grows stronger every day thanks to the friendship, mutual respect, and brotherly feelings that connect our peoples.”

The forum agenda covers an ambitious range of topics aimed at bolstering cooperation. Discussions will focus on expanding parliamentary friendship groups and elevating them to formal interparliamentary commissions.

Lawmakers also plan to explore joint legislative initiatives, support youth projects, and enhance collaboration across critical sectors, including the economy, education, healthcare, digital transformation, and environmental protection.

By Tamilla Hasanova