President Ilham Aliyev of the Republic of Azerbaijan recently met with President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation in Moscow to discuss various matters of mutual interest.

The meeting took place within the framework of the Eurasian Economic Union, with Azerbaijan participating as a guest member.

During the meeting, Putin expressed his gratitude to President Aliyev for joining the Eurasian Economic Union, highlighting the strong and deep-rooted nature of the relations between Azerbaijan and all member countries. He emphasized the importance of continued trade and economic ties, which contribute to the development of relations among the peoples in the region. President Putin also commended the high level of bilateral relations between Russia and Azerbaijan, based on principles of equality and mutual respect, as outlined in the Declaration on Allied Interaction signed in February 2022.

Putin acknowledged the significance of the 100th anniversary of Heydar Aliyevich Aliyev, a renowned political figure in both the Soviet Union and independent Azerbaijan. He praised Heydar Aliyev's contributions and highlighted the commemorative events held in Russia to honor his legacy. The celebrations included exhibitions, documentaries, and various events in different regions of Russia, recognizing Heydar Aliyev's significant role in the construction of the Baikal-Amur Mainline (BAM).

In response, Aliyev expressed gratitude for the invitation to participate in the Eurasian Economic Union summit and appreciated the respect shown towards the memory of Heydar Aliyev. He acknowledged the foundational role played by Heydar Aliyev and President Putin in shaping the current level of relations between Russia and Azerbaijan. President Aliyev described the bilateral relations as not only de facto but also de jure allied, highlighting the importance of the Declaration on Allied Interaction signed last year.

Aliyev also expressed his gratitude for Russia's efforts in normalizing relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He appreciated the Russian side's involvement and participation in the trilateral meeting, which demonstrated the importance attached to achieving a peace agreement between the two countries. Aliyev expressed optimism that recent statements by the Armenian leadership, acknowledging the recognition of Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan and its territorial integrity, would pave the way for smoother negotiations on other aspects of the peace treaty.

The leaders discussed a broad bilateral agenda and expressed their commitment to further cooperation and deepening relations between their countries.

The meeting between Presidents Aliyev and Putin holds significant regional and international importance, particularly given the ongoing efforts to foster stability and cooperation in the region. (ILKHA)