Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has reaffirmed the deep-rooted ties between Türkiye and Azerbaijan, describing their relationship as a bond of brotherhood that extends beyond shared language, history and culture.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev following their bilateral meeting in Shusha, Erdoğan said the two countries shared a common destiny and took pride in each other's achievements.

“Our brotherhood is way beyond a shared language, history and culture. That is why we regard Baku’s joy as Ankara’s joy, and the pride of Shusha as the pride of our entire nation,” he said.

Erdoğan described Azerbaijan's victory in Karabakh as a powerful manifestation of what he called the country's rightful cause, adding that it remained a source of pride for the Turkic world.

He said relations between the two countries had overcome numerous historical challenges and reached their current level of cooperation, emphasizing the principle of “one nation, two states” as the foundation of their enduring partnership.

“This unity of affection, which we describe as ‘one nation, two states’, is an inextinguishable torch that enlightens our future with the strength it draws from our shared history,” he said.

The Turkish president also highlighted the growing role of the Organization of Turkic States, describing its progress as a reflection of the shared commitment and joint efforts of its members.

Erdoğan thanked Azerbaijan for its efforts during its term presidency of the organization, saying Türkiye would work during its own presidency to strengthen its institutional structure and improve its effectiveness.

Following the meeting and press conference, Erdoğan and First Lady Emine Erdoğan attended an official dinner hosted in their honor by Aliyev and his wife, Mehriban Aliyeva. (ILKHA)