During a one-day working visit to Nakhchivan, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held a joint press conference with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Ilham Aliyev.

The leaders expressed their commitment to strengthening the historic and strategic ties between their nations.

In his address at the joint press conference, Erdoğan emphasized the paramount importance of Nakhchivan throughout history, underscoring its special place in the relations between Türkiye and Azerbaijan. He noted the uniqueness of the Türkiye-Azerbaijan relationship, describing it as "one nation, two states."

Erdoğan highlighted a significant development in their alliance, the signing of the Shusha Declaration, which he co-authored with President Aliyev. This declaration marks a milestone in elevating their relations to the alliance level.

Regarding Nakhchivan's current significance, Erdoğan pointed out its substantial potential in terms of economics, transport, and energy infrastructure. He expressed optimism that this potential could be fully realized through the establishment of regional energy lines.

The leaders also addressed global and regional challenges with Erdoğan stressing the heightened importance of the Trans-Caspian International East-West Middle Corridor due to the COVID-19 pandemic and regional conflicts.

He highlighted a new endeavor, the Iğdır-Nakhchivan Natural Gas Pipeline, which has recently commenced construction. This pipeline is expected to not only strengthen the energy partnership between Türkiye and Azerbaijan but also contribute to Europe's energy supply security.

The visit reaffirmed the enduring friendship and strategic cooperation between Türkiye and Azerbaijan, with a focus on enhancing economic ties and energy security in the region. (ILKHA)