Presidents Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Ilham Aliyev have signed a historic 'Treaty on Eternal Friendship' in Tashkent, aiming to skyrocket bilateral trade to $1 billion by 2030 and strengthen Trans-Caspian connectivity.

  • Signing of the 'Treaty on Eternal Friendship' between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan.
  • Target set to increase bilateral trade to $1 billion by 2030.
  • Joint hosting of the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup announced.
  • Focus on strengthening the 'Middle Corridor' and Caspian Sea connectivity.

In a landmark diplomatic move, Presidents Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan and Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan signed a 'Treaty on Eternal Friendship' during a high-profile state visit to Tashkent. This treaty solidifies a strategic partnership aimed at transforming the economic and geopolitical landscape of the region, with a clear roadmap for expanded cooperation in energy, banking, and transport.

The summit included the third meeting of the Supreme Interstate Council, a body established in 2023 to coordinate long-term cooperation. During the discussions, President Aliyev highlighted the rapid growth of trade, which reached $795 million in 2025. The two nations have now set an ambitious target to reach $1 billion in bilateral trade by the year 2030.

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Economic Expansion and Investment

The economic integration is backed by significant capital. The Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan Investment Company, with a $500 million fund, is actively financing diverse projects ranging from mining and agriculture to education and fuel retail. Notably, Azerbaijan's state-owned ABB bank is in negotiations to acquire a 51% stake in Uzbekistan's Davr Bank, a move expected to exceed $100 million and provide Azerbaijan with a direct foothold in the Uzbek banking sector.

The deepening ties between Tashkent and Baku represent a strategic pivot toward a more integrated and resilient Trans-Caspian economic zone.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this partnership is a critical component of the broader Middle Corridor strategy. By improving logistics infrastructure and increasing freight traffic, the two nations are positioning themselves as the primary gateway between Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and Europe. Furthermore, the plan to create a joint fleet on the Caspian Sea will significantly enhance maritime security and trade efficiency.

Historical Background

The relationship has undergone rapid evolution. Following the 'Treaty on Allied Relations' in 2024, the current 'Treaty on Eternal Friendship' marks a significant escalation in diplomatic closeness. This progression reflects a mutual desire to insulate regional economies from global volatility through strengthened intra-regional links.

Did You Know?: The planned 'Sea Breeze Uzbekistan' tourism project in the Bostanlyk district is expected to attract an investment of approximately $5 billion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What is the primary goal of the new treaty?
Answer: The treaty aims to deepen economic, energy, and transport ties, specifically targeting $1 billion in trade by 2030.

Question 2: How will the two countries cooperate in sports?
Answer: Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan will jointly host the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2027.