Vladimir Putin and Ilham Aliyev hold another meeting in Sochi

President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin and President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev held another meeting in Sochi.

The talks were held in the framework of the discussion political international club, which we call the 'Valdai Club,' because its first meeting was held at Valdai, Putin said.

"I would like to begin by saying that I am very happy to see you," he said, referring to Ilham Aliyev. “We have not met for a long time,” the Kremlin’s press service cited the president as saying.

Despite a pause in our personal meetings and contacts, "relations between our countries have been developing successfully," Putin stressed.

Trade and economic ties are strengthening. Last year, bilateral trade was $2.5 billion. "We have good prospects in this field," he said, noted he is referring to the "plans largely designed by the President of Azerbaijan". On its side, Russia does everything it can to have these projects, "large projects", implemented, the Russia head of state stressed. The intergovernmental commission is working on this with confidence, Putin believes.

There is a need to discuss the developments in our relations in other areas, Putin said, expressing hope that Ilham Aliyev will take part in "an interesting general discussion."

The President of Azerbaijan, thanking for an invitation, noted that it's a great honour for him to take part in the meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club, which is "an important international venue today for discussing topical global issues related to the modern world order."

Four months "is quite a lot, considering the intensity of our contacts," Ilham Aliyev said. "Last year we held four meetings, which played a very positive role and gave a good boost to the development of our relations, which we characterise as a strategic partnership," he stressed.

The Azerbaijani leader also noted the positive dynamics in trade and the economy. "Our bilateral trade has been growing both last year and this year," he said. "According to our data, trade was up 20% by August," Ilham Aliyev added. "The implementation of the roadmaps you and I have adopted will result in closer interaction, integration and cooperation in all areas," he said.

For Azerbaijan, Russia is a very important partner, friend, and good neighbour, Ilham Aliyev stressed. "We highly value these relations. I am sure that today’s discussion will make a solid contribution to the further development of our ties," the Azerbaijani president expressed confidence.