Sherzodkhon Kudratkhoja: Azerbaijan is Uzbekistan's gateway to Europe – EXCLUSIVE

The development of cultural and humanitarian cooperation will contribute to strengthening ties between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan in other areas as well, Rector of the University of Journalism and Mass Communications of Uzbekistan (O'zJOKU) Sherzodkhon Kudratkhoja said in an interview with a Report correspondent in Tashkent.

He noted that Azerbaijani-Uzbek relations are at their highest level, with cooperation actively developing in the economy, trade, culture and education.

"Today, Azerbaijani-Uzbek relations have reached their peak, their highest point. A great deal of work is being carried out to develop cooperation in many areas," the rector said.

According to him, close political relations between the two countries play an important role in expanding bilateral cooperation.

The rector also stressed the need to implement joint projects in the media sector and create modern cultural content for younger audiences.

"There is a need for this. We love Azerbaijani artists very much, while in Azerbaijan, as far as I know, people love Uzbek performers, the Yalla group and our historical films. But in the 21st century, content needs to be updated and made more creative and interesting so that young people will watch it," he said.

Speaking about economic cooperation, he highlighted Azerbaijan's strategic importance as one of the key routes for Uzbek products to reach European markets.

"Azerbaijan is a window to Europe for us. No one can bypass Azerbaijan, as it is located at this geographical point. At the same time, Uzbekistan has enormous export potential," the rector emphasized.

He also pointed to the importance of developing transport routes and opening the Zangazur Corridor.

"The opening of the Zangazur Corridor, as part of the Middle Corridor, is of great importance to us. It will facilitate the exchange of goods, ideas and much more," Kudratkhoja added.