ANKARA, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said no one could undermine the brotherly ties between Türkiye and Azerbaijan, rejecting attempts to create divisions between the two countries, the state-run TRT broadcaster reported Monday.
"Türkiye and Azerbaijan are two brotherly countries connected by unbreakable bonds. Despite efforts by those seeking to sow discord, we have crowned our cooperation with mega projects in many strategic areas," Erdogan told journalists on his return flight after attending Azerbaijan's Victory Day celebrations.
He also rejected suggestions of a lasting rift between the two countries.
"Those seeking division between Türkiye and Azerbaijan are engaged in a futile effort. There is complete solidarity, a shared destiny and a bond of brotherhood between us," Erdogan said.
Türkiye and Azerbaijan would continue working together to promote stability, prosperity and cooperation across the region, he added.
Erdogan's remarks came following recent public debate in both countries over Azerbaijan's school dress regulations.
The issue escalated after Oktay Saral, former chief adviser to Erdogan, publicly criticized the restrictions and urged Baku to reverse them. Azerbaijan's ruling New Azerbaijan Party later accused Turkish political figures of interfering in the country's internal affairs. Saral subsequently resigned, with Azerbaijani media linking his departure to efforts to ease bilateral tensions. ■
