Moscow understands Ilham Aliyev's decision not to attend CIS summit - Peskov

Moscow understands Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev's decision not to attend the informal Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) summit in St. Petersburg on Monday, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

"We completely understand. Indeed, all heads of state have a very busy schedule, especially in December, on the eve of the New Year," Dmitry Peskov said.

The spokesman added that Azerbaijan continues to participate in all CIS formats.

Earlier today, it was reported that Ilham Aliyev would not be able to take part in the informal CIS summit due to his heavy schedule.