Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, on Sunday, ahead of a series of key official events planned for Monday.

The visit underscores the close ties between Russia and Azerbaijan and includes several significant ceremonial and diplomatic engagements.

President Putin is scheduled to visit the Alley of Honor, where he will lay a wreath at the grave of Azerbaijan's national leader, Heydar Aliyev. He will then proceed to the Alley of Martyrs to honor the memory of those who died for Azerbaijan's independence.

The official state visit will commence with a formal meeting between President Putin and his Azerbaijani counterpart, Ilham Aliyev, at the Zagulba residence on the Caspian coast. The two leaders are expected to have a one-on-one conversation before being joined by their respective delegations for broader discussions. The talks are anticipated to result in a joint statement and the signing of several interstate agreements. Following the discussions, Putin and Aliyev will hold a press briefing to discuss the outcomes of their meeting.

As part of the visit, Putin will also tour Baku's White City, an area in the city's eastern part that is undergoing restoration and development. Additionally, he will visit the Holy Myrrhbearers Cathedral, a significant religious site in Baku. The visit will conclude with a state reception hosted by President Aliyev in honor of his Russian guest.

This visit highlights the strategic partnership between Russia and Azerbaijan, with the leaders expected to address a range of bilateral and regional issues during their talks. (ILKHA)