Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke by phone with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to discuss concrete security measures and enduring stability across the South Caucasus. The conversation, centered on regional security architecture, emphasized how the three nations signed trilateral agreements—Russia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia—can work together to prevent tensions from flaring and to build a steadier economic environment. The Kremlin press office noted that the leaders exchanged views on practical steps that can reinforce security in border areas, disaster response coordination, and confidence-building measures aimed at reducing incidents that could disrupt civilian life or commerce in several border zones.
In addition to security, the two leaders explored opportunities to deepen transportation corridors, streamline logistics networks, and expand bilateral economic ties that connect major ports, rail hubs, and road routes across the South Caucasus. The discussion highlighted the importance of reliable transit routes for regional trade, energy projects, and investment flows that can benefit communities on both sides of the borders while supporting the broader goal of stability in the region.
Earlier in the day, Putin met in Moscow with Alan Gagloev, the president of South Ossetia. The meeting reaffirmed a relationship described by Moscow as special, with emphasis on economic collaboration, long-term investment programs, and socio-economic development. Gagloev expressed appreciation for Russia’s backing of the republic’s gasification project, which is expected to spur local economic growth and move the region toward greater energy self-sufficiency. He also extended an invitation to the Russian leader to visit South Ossetia to review progress on major infrastructure and development initiatives firsthand.
The day’s diplomatic activity culminated in discussions with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on the eve of Putin’s broader engagements, reflecting ongoing multilateral diplomacy that touches regional security, economic cooperation, and humanitarian considerations across Eurasia. The Kremlin described the exchanges as constructive, reinforcing long-standing ties while seeking practical outcomes in energy, transportation, and security collaboration that benefit Russia and its regional partners. [Kremlin press office]