FM: Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Türkiye can double mutual trade volume

Uzbekistan's Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov has said that Azerbaijan, Türkiye and Uzbekistan can potentially double the mutual trade volume in the near future.

Saidov made these remarks during a joint press conference with the foreign ministers of the three countries in Ankara, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

"In recent years, our cooperation in both bilateral and multilateral formats has reached an unprecedented level. We have discussed ways to further expand this cooperation. Uzbekistan is pursuing an open and pragmatic foreign policy and is committed to strengthening ties with its strategic partners, both near and far. We view trilateral cooperation as an opportunity to create new prospects," he emphasised.

Following the second trilateral meeting of the foreign ministers, as well as the ministers of economy, trade and transport Saidov said during a joint press conference that the geographic location and transit potential of Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Türkiye hold significant strategic importance.

He highlighted that close cooperation in this sphere not only will ensure the stability of freight transport but will also lead to the creation of new transport corridors that meet the needs of the global market. 

"While Türkiye and Azerbaijan currently serve as the 'western gates' of the Middle Corridor, Uzbekistan acts as a strategic hub, similar to the ancient Silk Road," Saidov added.

The second meeting of the Türkiye-Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan trilateral mechanism officially began in Ankara on January 29, bringing together high-ranking officials from the three nations.

Attendees include the foreign ministers, as well as ministers for trade, economy, and transport, who are set to engage in comprehensive talks aimed at strengthening bilateral and regional relations.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan delivered the opening speech at the meeting as the host country.

The primary focus of the discussions includes the advancement of foreign policy coordination, as well as the enhancement of trade, economic ties, and investment opportunities.

By Naila Huseynova