Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev reaffirmed their countries' close relationship on Sunday, seeking to quell speculation that recent events had strained their traditional alliance. Both leaders spoke at a joint news conference in Shusha, Azerbaijan, emphasizing the deep historical and cultural ties that bind the two nations, often described as "one nation, two states."
Tensions had surfaced following Azerbaijan's decision in September to ban headscarves for girls and teachers in schools. This move drew criticism from social media users in Turkey and members of Erdogan's ruling party, as Turkey's own government had overturned a similar ban years prior. Reports suggested that Aliyev was angered by the criticism, which he perceived as interference.
In an effort to mend relations, Erdogan reportedly called Aliyev to invite him to a Turkic states summit hosted by Turkey on October 30. Erdogan also dismissed an aide who had publicly criticized the hijab ban on social media, a move reportedly prompted by a request from Aliyev, according to Turkish media. Despite the invitation, Aliyev did not attend the summit, sending his foreign minister instead, which further fueled speculation about discord between the allies.
Erdogan stated at the joint news conference that the brotherhood between Turkey and Azerbaijan "transcends our shared language, history and culture," adding that "Baku’s joy is Ankara’s joy and Shusha’s pride is the pride of our entire nation." He also highlighted that their unity "is an everlasting beacon, drawing strength from our shared past and lighting the way to our future."
Erdogan's visit to Shusha coincided with Azerbaijan's Victory Day celebrations, marking the sixth anniversary of the country's victory over Armenia in Nagorno-Karabakh.