President Aliyev’s Shusha forum address dominates coverage across Russian media PHOTO

Russian media outlets have given broad coverage to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev’s speech at the 4th Shusha Global Media Forum. 

According to AZERTAC, the Azerbaijani leader’s statements became one of the leading international news stories of the day across major Russian media outlets, including TASS, Izvestia, Kommersant, Rossiyskaya Gazeta, Vedomosti, Argumenty i Fakty, Vzglyad, and Moskovsky Komsomolets.

Particular attention was paid to President Aliyev’s statement that relations between Baku and Moscow have been fully normalised and continue to develop in a positive direction. Russian media also highlighted his remarks that contacts between the two countries are maintained at various levels, including through governments, the intergovernmental commission, foreign ministries, and presidential administrations.

The Russian press also extensively covered President Aliyev’s comments on the regional “3+3” cooperation format. Media reports noted his position that the mechanism should address issues concerning the entire South Caucasus and serve as a foundation for regional cooperation.

Russian outlets further quoted the Azerbaijani leader’s remarks regarding relations with the Council of Europe. Reports highlighted his statement that Azerbaijan could ultimately withdraw from the organisation if approaches and demands deemed unacceptable by Baku continue.

In addition, Russian media covered President Aliyev’s assessment of Azerbaijan’s Soviet-era history, as well as his statement that the country has achieved the status of a middle power during its years of independence and pursues an independent foreign policy based on the protection of national interests.

By Jeyhun Aghazada