Baku Identifies Obstacle to Deepening Relations with Russia

The Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Russia, Rahman Mustafayev, has stated that Baku wishes to deepen allied ties with Moscow; however, the negative informational background in Russian media poses an obstacle to this endeavor.

Responding to a question from RTVI, the ambassador commented on the state of bilateral relations and the potential crisis, as well as assessed Moscow's proposal for consultations on "normalizing the informational backdrop." Previously, Azerbaijan's General Prosecutor's Office announced a search for three media figures from Russia, which was commented on by the Russian Foreign Ministry.

The diplomat noted that the current phase of relations is characterized by positive dynamics, with Baku recognizing the constructive nature of dialogue between various agencies, ministries, and governments, as well as an intensification of inter-regional cooperation.

According to Rahman Mustafayev, Baku is determined to further deepen relations with Moscow based on strategic partnership and allied principles, which was reaffirmed during telephone conversations between the presidents of the two countries on March 11 and July 28.

However, the ambassador emphasized that the implementation of the provisions of the Declaration dated February 22, 2022, and the expansion of allied cooperation have been complicated by the extreme negative informational backdrop directed against Azerbaijan, which is shaped by certain Russian journalists, bloggers, and experts.

The ambassador stated that at least 96 Russian Telegram and YouTube channels, news portals, and media outlets disseminate thesis about Azerbaijan as a "non-friendly" state, and their numbers are increasing.

Rahman Mustafayev stressed that through diplomatic channels, they have drawn the Russian side's attention to provocative and offensive statements directed against Azerbaijan, its people, and leadership. He considers the situation unacceptable and anticipates a principled response and concrete actions from Moscow.