Azerbaijan, Türkiye, Uzbekistan outline joint projects in newly released Ankara Declaration

Ankara, Baku, and Tashkent have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their close strategic partnership and cooperation, based on the principles of mutual trust and respect.

This was outlined in the Ankara Declaration, which was adopted on January 29 following a trilateral meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Economy, and Transport of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan, Caliber.Az reports referring to local media.

The ministers emphasized their commitment to supporting the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and inviolability of the borders of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan. The declaration also reaffirms the principles of international law and the UN Charter, underscoring the inviolability of these norms.

The document highlights the determination of the three nations to promote and implement joint projects in key areas, including trade, investment, industry, energy, transport, logistics, digitalization, and communications.

A key focus of the declaration is the Middle Corridor, which is described as playing an important role in increasing the transit potential of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan. The text underscores the necessity of strengthening cooperation within the TRACECA program (Transport Corridor Europe-Caucasus-Asia), which is seen as crucial for unlocking the significant transit potential of the three countries.

The declaration also stresses the importance of regional and international collaboration, aligning with the shared interests and priorities of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan. The three nations expressed their determination to support joint actions aimed at preventing any attempts to harm their sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The need for new projects that will enhance the capacity and competitiveness of the Middle Corridor is emphasized. The declaration expresses full support for the continued development of major infrastructure projects, including the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway and the Baku International Sea Trade Port.

The ministers also welcomed the adoption of an Action Plan aimed at deepening cooperation in the transport sector, as well as strengthening regional connectivity and the resilience of transport systems.

The declaration dedicates special attention to the restoration and development of Azerbaijan’s Karabakh and East Zangezur economic regions. It acknowledges the importance of ensuring the safe and dignified return of displaced persons to these liberated territories and underscores the significance of investment projects currently being implemented in these regions.

Satisfaction was expressed with the results of COP29, the 29th session of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, which was hosted by Azerbaijan. The declaration recognizes the importance of joint efforts in addressing climate-related challenges and fostering sustainable development initiatives.

By Tamilla Hasanova