Erdoğan and Aliyev hold a bilateral meeting in Azerbaijan, discussing the strengthening of relations between the two countries

Shusha, Azerbaijan – The President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and his counterpart from Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, held a bilateral meeting in the city of Shusha in Azerbaijan, followed by a joint press conference, where they discussed the historical relationship between the two countries and strengthening the cooperation between them.

President Erdoğan stated that Azerbaijan's success in the Karabakh region is a historic victory that honors Azerbaijan and the entire Turkic world, noting that the relationship between Ankara and Baku is currently at a very high level, after having gone through various historical challenges.

Erdoğan emphasized that the relationship between the two countries is based on the principle of “One nation, two states,” which he described as a deep unity rooted in history, culture, and love shared by both peoples.

He mentioned that the brotherhood between Turkey and Azerbaijan is not limited to just the language, history, and culture they share, but is a strong national relationship, stating that the joy of the city of Baku is the joy of Ankara, while the honor of the city of Shusha is the honor of the entire Turkish people.

On the other hand, the President of Turkey spoke about the importance of the Organization of Turkic States, stating that the level the organization has reached today reflects the desire and joint efforts of the member countries.

He thanked the government of Azerbaijan for the efforts it has made during its leadership of the organization, particularly those related to strengthening unity and developing cooperation in the Turkic world.

Erdoğan also expressed his hope that during his country's leadership of the organization, its institutional framework will be developed to become more powerful and effective.

At the end of the visit, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and the First Lady of Turkey, Emine Erdoğan, attended an official dinner hosted by the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, and the First Lady of that country, Mehriban Aliyeva.

The meeting once again highlights the close political and fraternal relationship between Turkey and Azerbaijan, which has long been characterized by cooperation in various fields.