KAZAN: President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan received the highest state award of Tatarstan during a meeting with Rustam Minnikhanov, the Rais of Tatarstan, in Kazan. The meeting highlighted the strengthening ties between Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation, particularly through the bilateral relationship with Tatarstan. President Aliyev was awarded the Duslyk (Friendship) Order in recognition of his contributions to the development of cooperation and mutual understanding between the two regions.

According to Trend News Agency, the meeting underscored the importance of Azerbaijani-Tatarstan relations within the broader context of Azerbaijan-Russia interactions. Rustam Minnikhanov expressed gratitude for President Aliyev’s attention and congratulated him on Azerbaijan’s efforts to foster strong bilateral ties. The meeting took place amid the hosting of the BRICS Summit and BRICS+ in Tatarstan, an event President Aliyev praised as a testament to Tatarstan’s infrastructure and capabilities.

President Aliyev co
mmended Tatarstan’s achievements under Minnikhanov’s leadership and expressed optimism about future collaborations. The two leaders discussed various matters, including business and tourism opportunities, and President Aliyev extended an invitation for Minnikhanov to visit Azerbaijan. During the meeting, President Aliyev also expressed his appreciation for the recognition and the gift from Tatarstan, which will be directed to the regions of Zangilan and Jabrayil in Azerbaijan.

The meeting concluded with acknowledgments of the deepening partnership and mutual respect between Azerbaijan and Tatarstan, as both leaders noted the potential for further cooperation and success in the future.