Azerbaijan audits expose systemic budget risks despite falling violations

Azerbaijan produced 6.6 million tons of oil (49 million barrels) and 12.6 billion cubic meters of natural gas in January–March 2026, the Energy Ministry said.

Negotiations between the United States and Iran ended without an agreement after 21 hours of discussions, exposing deep divisions over nuclear policy, control of the Strait of Hormuz and regional security, while Washington signalled it may escalate pressure through a naval blockade.

On April 9, a preparatory court hearing was held at the Baku Court for Serious Crimes under the chairmanship of Judge Vugar Seyidov in the criminal case of Anar Mehdiyev, former Chairman of the Board of Directors of “Azersheker” Limited Liability Company, as well as Avaz Suleymanov and Ruslan Alasgarov, who have also been brought to criminal responsibility.

Direct talks between the United States and Iran will take place in Islamabad on Saturday, mediated by Pakistan, with the aim of peacefully resolving the conflict and reducing regional tensions, official sources said.