Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended an invitation to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to visit Russia at a time convenient to him, according to a joint statement released following their recent talks in Baku. The statement highlighted the strong partnership and mutual trust between the two nations, emphasizing the productive and substantive nature of the discussions.
The joint statement outlined the successful outcomes of the talks held during Putin’s state visit to Baku on August 18 and 19. Both leaders agreed that the meetings were conducted in an atmosphere of complete mutual understanding and deep trust, reflecting the close partnership between Russia and Azerbaijan. They underscored the importance of strengthening interstate ties based on principles of mutual respect for state sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, equality, and non-interference in each other’s domestic affairs.
The discussions also touched on broader international cooperation, with both presidents expressing their commitment to building a world order grounded in international law, free from double standards and divisive practices. The leaders reiterated their support for ongoing efforts to normalize relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, with Russia reaffirming its role in facilitating this process.
In addition to political and diplomatic cooperation, the joint statement highlighted the importance of economic and socio-cultural collaboration between Russia and Azerbaijan. The two countries agreed to strengthen cooperation regionally, including in areas like the Caspian Sea. The statement also noted the shared commitment to working together within international frameworks to address global challenges.
Putin expressed his gratitude to Aliyev for the warm reception and hospitality extended during his visit to Baku. The invitation for Aliyev to visit Russia was described as a gesture of the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two countries. The date for the visit will be determined through diplomatic channels, allowing for further discussions on bilateral issues and the continuation of the productive dialogue established during Putin’s visit.
This meeting between the Russian and Azerbaijani presidents marks another step forward in the strengthening of ties between the two nations. The reaffirmation of mutual respect and the commitment to cooperation across various sectors underscores the importance of the Russia-Azerbaijan partnership in the region.