Putin Aims to Fortify Moscow's Trade Routes Through Crucial Azerbaijan Talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Baku to strengthen trade routes and bolster diplomatic ties in the South Caucasus. The discussions emphasized economic cooperation, with a focus on cargo transport and easing Russia's access to global markets amid Western sanctions. Azerbaijan values Russian support, especially in light of ongoing tensions with Armenia.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin held crucial talks on Monday with Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev during a two-day visit aimed at securing Moscow's pressured trade routes and reinforcing ties in the South Caucasus.

High on their agenda were business links, with Aliyev announcing a $120 million investment to enhance cargo transport between the two nations. He mentioned the goal of moving 15 million tons of cargo per year, highlighting last year's $4 billion trade turnover between Russia and Azerbaijan as just the beginning.

According to independent political scientist Zardusht Alizade, Putin relies on countries like Azerbaijan to circumvent global sanctions over the Ukraine conflict. Azerbaijan, in turn, seeks to maintain Russia's goodwill for national security, given the strained relations with Armenia after Azerbaijan's recent military action in Karabakh.

(With inputs from agencies.)