Azerbaijan, Iran presidents hold call amid regional tensions, stress need for de-escalation

Russian media have reported the spread of foot-and-mouth disease among livestock in several regions of the country. According to these reports, the main outbreak zone is Siberia. Azerbaijan imports beef from Russia, which accounts for approximately 20% of total beef imports. Experts recommend that Azerbaijan exercise caution in importing beef from Russia.

Azerbaijan’s foreign exchange market remained stable in the early months of 2026, supported by a steady manat exchange rate, declining dollarisation and a modest increase in central bank reserves, official data showed.

Azerbaijan’s monetary base increased to 23.765 billion manats as of April 1, 2026, marking a rise of 948 million manats, or 4.2%, compared with March 1, according to official data.

U.S. President Donald Trump said on April 1 that American forces had achieved “rapid, decisive and overwhelming victories” in the conflict with Iran, while indicating Washington is simultaneously seeking a pathway to end the war through negotiations.