WNAM REPORT: The official visit of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to Türkiye and the fourth meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council held in Ankara marked the beginning of a qualitatively new stage in the history of bilateral relations.
This dialogue went beyond the framework of a conventional diplomatic visit and evolved into an institutional expression of multifaceted cooperation that occupies an essential place in Uzbekistan’s foreign policy strategy.
The political significance of the talks is directly linked to Uzbekistan’s consistent strengthening of its role in regional and global processes. Recognition by the Turkish side of Uzbekistan as an essential driver of regional integration in Central Asia attests to the country’s growing international standing. It is particularly symbolic that this meeting took place on the eve of the 30th anniversary of the 1996 signing of the Treaty on Eternal Friendship and Cooperation, once again confirming the shared interests of the two states.
For Uzbekistan, strengthening relations with Türkiye is essential not only to accelerate economic and technological modernization but also to ensure geopolitical balance on the international stage.
The consistent development of economic cooperation is a practical outcome of the political trust between the two countries. Over the past 10 years, bilateral trade turnover has tripled, while Turkish investment in Uzbekistan’s economy has reached $5 billion, creating a solid foundation for a strategic partnership. From Uzbekistan’s national interests, the participation of Turkish companies in projects to develop industry, energy, agriculture, and infrastructure is particularly valuable, as it creates jobs and facilitates technology transfer.
A firm and principled position on the situation in Gaza Strip and State of Palestine, as well as mutual assistance in addressing the consequences of natural disasters – exemplified by the “Uzbek mahalla” in Hatay Province and the Uzbek school in Istanbul – demonstrate the shared destiny of the two peoples.
Cooperation between Uzbekistan and Türkiye is increasingly essential for strengthening regional security and economic prosperity. This, in turn, enhances the international standing of the New Uzbekistan and safeguards its national interests in the long term.
