President Vladimir Putin extended birthday greetings to Azerbaijan’s leader Ilham Aliyev, highlighting the achievements of his Azerbaijani counterpart. The message from the Kremlin was published on the official Russian site. Putin praised Azerbaijan’s growing economic strength under Aliyev and noted the country’s expanding role in regional and international affairs. He also emphasized the important contribution of Aliyev in strengthening the alliance between Russia and Azerbaijan, underscoring that such work is highly significant for both nations [Kremlin].
The Russian president expressed his readiness to continue joint efforts and constructive dialogue, wishing Aliyev health, happiness, and well‑being as both sides pursue shared interests [Kremlin].
It has been reported that Ilham Aliyev is set to participate in Azerbaijan’s presidential elections. The elections were scheduled for February 7, 2024, representing a pivotal moment in the country’s political cycle [Kremlin].
Aliyev assumed the office of President of Azerbaijan on October 31, 2003. If elected for another term in 2024, he would hold the presidency for a fifth time, reflecting a long period of leadership and continuity in Azerbaijan’s political landscape [Kremlin].
There is confidence from Russian officials that Aliyev would attend the informal summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States, signaling ongoing diplomatic engagement and collaboration across the region [Kremlin].
The engagement between Russia and Azerbaijan continues to encompass energy cooperation, regional security, and political dialogue. These elements collectively shape a bilateral relationship that supports stability and cooperation across the South Caucasus and broader Eurasian space, with both capitals pursuing mutually beneficial initiatives [Kremlin].