Erdoğan stresses Karabakh reconstruction and lasting peace

How did the Shusha Declaration change relations?

According to both leaders, the Shusha Declaration formally elevated relations between Türkiye and Azerbaijan to an alliance. Erdoğan said the document, signed in Shusha on June 15, 2021, strengthened their brotherly ties through an alliance. Aliyev said it gave a formal framework to the historical and cultural bonds that already existed.

According to TRT Haber’s report, credited to TRT Haber-AA, Erdoğan said those seeking to weaken these ties would not achieve their aims. He said they were also working to promote the same vision across the Turkic world.

Aliyev also described the two countries as allies even before the declaration. He said preserving their unity was a responsibility shared by both peoples and their leaders, adding that they would not allow anyone to undermine their solidarity for personal interests.

Shared culture and reflections on wartime support

Describing Türkiye-Azerbaijan relations as “one nation, two states,” Erdoğan said their closeness went beyond a shared language, history and culture. He said Baku’s joy was shared in Ankara, while Shusha’s pride was shared across Türkiye.

Discussing the cultural foundations of the relationship, Aliyev listed shared history, ethnic roots, language, literature and spiritual values. He said relations between the two states had developed on that foundation.

Wartime political contacts were also discussed at the press conference. Aliyev said Erdoğan’s statement and telephone conversation with him in the opening hours of the Second Karabakh War had given Azerbaijan strength and boosted morale. He thanked Erdoğan and the Turkish people, saying Türkiye had stood alongside Azerbaijan throughout the 44 days.

Aliyev also described the unity between Türkiye and Azerbaijan as a source of regional stability, cooperation and security. He said Erdoğan’s presence in Karabakh on Victory Day demonstrated that unity.