Russia's Interests in Azerbaijan: A Retrospective Analysis and Prospective View

The two-day visit of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to Uzbekistan on August 22-23, 2024, marked another phase in the deepening relations between the two countries. Concluding with the signing of the Treaty on Allied Relations, this visit elevated bilateral relations to the level of a strategic alliance, positioning both countries as vital partners in the broader context of Central Asia and the Caucasus. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev highly praised this agreement, calling it a breakthrough in their developing cooperation, which has gained momentum in recent years.

Russian President Vladimir Putin may visit Azerbaijan on August 19, according to Russian media reports last week. This news preceded and essentially explained the 22nd meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission (IGC) on Economic Cooperation between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation held in Baku on August 9, which took place without media coverage.

On August 9, 2024, under the chairmanship of Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the Sixth Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia took place. This meeting marked a turning point in deepening cooperation in Central Asia, heralding a new era characterized by mutual trust and comprehensive interaction.

The European Union and Ukraine have asked Azerbaijan to facilitate negotiations with Russia on a gas transit agreement, which expires at the end of this year. Hikmet Hajiyev, adviser to the President of Azerbaijan, told the world agencies Reuters and Blumberg about this.