Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan hold first interparliamentary forum in Khiva

Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan launched their first interparliamentary forum in Khiva on 1 July, marking a new chapter in bilateral legislative cooperation between the two countries.

The inaugural Uzbekistan-Azerbaijan Interparliamentary Forum opened in Khiva with the participation of parliamentary speakers and lawmakers from both countries. Speaker of Azerbaijan’s Milli Majlis, Sahiba Gafarova, described the event as a historic milestone — the first such forum Azerbaijan’s parliament has ever held with a foreign legislative body.

Gafarova highlighted the contributions of National Leader Heydar Aliyev to the close ties between the two nations. She pointed to the naming of Heydar Aliyev Square in Tashkent as a symbol of Uzbekistan’s respect and enduring friendship.

The speaker also celebrated the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations and noted that, under Presidents Ilham Aliyev and Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the two countries have developed into strong, independent states with deepening cooperation.

Gafarova expressed gratitude for Uzbekistan’s support during the Second Karabakh War and the post-war recovery, including the construction of a school in Fuzuli and a textile enterprise in Khankendi — both seen as gestures of solidarity and friendship.

She stressed the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in fostering stronger bilateral and regional ties.

Speaker of the Uzbek Senate, Tanzila Narbaeva, called the forum a landmark in the evolving relationship between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. She said the event demonstrates a shared commitment to parliamentary values and regional cooperation, and expressed hope it would become a regular platform for dialogue, initiatives, and joint programmes.

The forum continued with thematic sessions focused on expanding legislative collaboration and regional development.

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