President Erdogan: Türkiye, Azerbaijan united in pursuit of regional stability, peace

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that Türkiye and Azerbaijan are firmly committed to supporting stability, cooperation, and prosperity in the region, with both nations united in their pursuit of peace.

President Erdogan made these remarks during the inauguration ceremony of the Iğdır-Nakhchivan gas pipeline, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

In his remarks, President Erdogan emphasised that both Ankara and Baku have made significant strides toward peace and regional development, underlining their joint efforts. 

"We have shown our sincerity through actions and are determined to continue implementing joint projects aimed at peace and prosperity," President Erdogan affirmed.

The event marked a significant milestone in Türkiye-Azerbaijan relations, with President Erdogan also congratulating the Azerbaijani people on the successful completion of the Iğdır-Nakhchivan gas pipeline project. 

"I congratulate the Azerbaijani people on the completion of this project," he said.

President Erdogan further highlighted the growing and strengthening ties between the two nations, particularly in the energy sector. 

He expressed confidence that the continued development of Nakhchivan’s energy security would be a key focus, reinforcing the broader strategic partnership between Türkiye and Azerbaijan.

Building on the significance of the ceremony, President Erdogan also revealed that the newly inaugurated Iğdır-Nakhchivan gas pipeline will meet Nakhchivan’s natural gas needs for the next 30 years. 

President Erdogan voiced his satisfaction with the successful delivery of Azerbaijani natural gas to Europe and highlighted the role of the new pipeline in enhancing regional cooperation.

"We are fully cooperating with Azerbaijan in this sector. Today, we are proud to launch a new project that will symbolize our unity with Nakhchivan. This pipeline will fulfill Nakhchivan's natural gas needs for the next 30 years," President Erdogan stated.

The Turkish leader further reiterated Türkiye’s unwavering commitment to supporting Azerbaijan in all circumstances, recalling the mutual solidarity shown during the devastating earthquakes on February 6, 2023.

"Just as we felt Azerbaijan’s solidarity during the earthquakes, we too are ready to respond at the first call from our Azerbaijani brothers," President Erdogan assured.

In a historic moment for regional cooperation, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan joined forces virtually for the grand unveiling of the Iğdır-Nakhchivan gas pipeline.

The two leaders participated in the opening ceremony via video link, marking yet another milestone in the enduring partnership between Azerbaijan and Türkiye.

President Aliyev’s arrival in Ankara on March 5 set the stage for this significant occasion.

Welcomed with full honours at Esenboğa Airport, the Azerbaijani leader was greeted by a guard of honour, with Türkiye’s Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek and other high-ranking officials on hand to extend their warm and respectful greetings.

By Naila Huseynova