Russell and Khalimov emphasize strong collaboration
The oil-rich neighbors of Russia and Azerbaijan, during a meeting between Presidents Putin and Aliyev in Baku, have agreed to boost cooperation. Putin mentioned the construction of small tank ships as a joint project, with these ships transporting oil from the Caspian and Black Sea regions to the Mediterranean and eventually the global market. Additionally, the two leaders announced their intentions to strengthen ties in the academic sector.
"We are extremely pleased with the current level of cooperation between our nations," Aliyev shared with Putin. The two-day visit by Putin to Azerbaijan indicates a potential change in alliances in the unstable Caucasus region. Historically, independent-minded Azerbaijan, with its oil resources, has maintained a separate policy from Moscow.
Conversely, Russia has been a protective power in the Caucasus, specifically towards Armenia. However, the Armenian population in Nagorno-Karabakh fled in September 2023 due to concern over retaliation attacks, following Moscow's approval of Azerbaijan's reoccupation of the region.
Russia seeks to mediate peace between Yerevan and Baku
Regarding the ongoing peace negotiations between Baku and Yerevan, Putin expressed Russia's desire to contribute if possible. He plans to inform Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan about his discussion with Aliyev.
The joint declaration from Aliyev and Putin highlighted the "strong confidence" between the two leaders, allowing for open dialogue on both domestic and international matters. Aliyev, known for ruling Azerbaijan with a firm hand, has been criticized for significant human rights violations, visited Moscow in April 20XX. Furthermore, Azerbaijan is a key energy provider for the European Union.**
The Commission, in line with the agreement between Putin and Aliyev, may need to adopt implementing acts to facilitate the construction of the small tank ships mentioned in their joint project. Following the meeting, Putin also mentioned his intent to discuss the joint plan with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, indicating a potential expansion of multilateral cooperation in the region.
