Vladimir Putin calls Ilham Aliyev and congratulates him on his birthday

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Azerbaijani leader Ilham Aliyev. This was reported on December 24 on the website of the head of the republic.

During the conversation, the Russian leader congratulated Aliyev on his birthday and wished him success in presidential activity. The Azerbaijani leader, in turn, expressed gratitude to Putin for his attention.

In addition, the heads of state discussed the importance of mutual visits and meetings. Putin and Aliyev also noted confidence in the successful development of the strategic partnership between Russia and Azerbaijan.

"<...> It was noted that Vladimir Putin's state visit to Azerbaijan this year has made an important contribution to further strengthening of bilateral relations," the publication said.

Earlier, on November 15, the two presidents held a telephone conversation in which they discussed cooperation between Moscow and Baku in the spheres of industry and transportation. Putin and Aliyev confirmed to each other that they are interested in further developing the partnership of the two states.

Prior to that, on August 19, the two leaders held talks in a narrow format at Aliyev's Zagulba residence. During the conversation, Putin drew attention to the fact that economic ties between Russia and Azerbaijan are successfully strengthening. For example, trade turnover and direct investments in Azerbaijan's economy have reached $4 billion. Putin pointed out that the two countries have many areas of joint work: energy, transportation, industrial cooperation, logistics.