Azerbaijan has been pursuing a very well-balanced and competent policy, said Russian State Duma Deputy Maria Butina, who commented on Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Azerbaijan.
According to Report, Butina described the meeting and talks in Baku as a historic event, noting that Putin's visit once again demonstrated the strong and friendly relations between the leaders of the two countries. "We see how warmly the leaders of the two countries communicated. Putin builds relationships based on a friendly note and foundation. Diplomacy is when leaders first become friends because that's where dialogue is born," she said.
The meeting between the presidents began in a narrow format, followed by a warm greeting between the heads of state and the First Lady of Azerbaijan. A number of important agreements were signed as a result of the negotiations, which Butina believes will contribute to the expansion of bilateral trade.
Butina particularly emphasized the importance of maintaining the Russian language in Azerbaijan. "It is very pleasant that the development of Russian schools in Azerbaijan continues. Unlike Armenia, where there are no Russian state schools, Azerbaijan pays huge attention to the Russian language, which is very significant. I think, among other things, this is why the relationship between the presidents is so warm," the deputy said.
In her opinion, much of what was discussed during the negotiations, including behind closed doors, will have long-term positive consequences for Russia and Azerbaijan.
The leaders noted the need to continue the dialogue on the settlement of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict. "I am sure that the negotiations between the presidents of Azerbaijan and Russia are the beginning that will give impetus to further work of the parliamentary corps and governments of both countries," she stated.
Putin's visit to Baku undoubtedly opens a new page in the history of Russian-Azerbaijani relations, Butina concluded.