Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan Sign Friendship Treaty, Target $1bn Trade

Presidents Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan and Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan signed a Treaty on Eternal Friendship in Tashkent on Tuesday, cementing a new era of cooperation between the two nations. The agreement, which follows years of growing diplomatic ties, outlines joint initiatives in banking, energy, tourism and mining, and establishes a framework for deeper economic integration.

Under the treaty, the governments agreed to collaborate on several high‑profile projects, including the development of cross‑border energy pipelines, the expansion of banking services in both countries, and the promotion of tourism corridors that highlight shared cultural heritage. In addition, the two leaders announced plans to co‑host the FIFA U‑20 World Cup in 2027, a move that aims to boost sports diplomacy and attract international attention to the region.

The signing of the treaty and the launch of these projects signal a strategic partnership that could reshape regional dynamics. By aligning their economic and sporting agendas, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan seek to strengthen bilateral ties, attract foreign investment, and position themselves as key players in Central Asian and Caucasian affairs.