Ali Hasanov hails Azerbaijan-Russia relations

Astrakhan, May 12 (AzerTAc). Head of the Department for Social and Political Affairs at the Azerbaijani President`s Administration Ali Hasanov has praised his country`s relations with Russia. Mr. Hasanov spoke to journalists while on a visit to Astrakhan which saw him attend an event marking the 91st anniversary of national leader Heydar Aliyev. “Relations with Russia occupy a special place in Azerbaijan`s foreign policy,” he said. “We have been directly communicating with not only Moscow, but also with the subjects of the Russia Federation.” He lauded “the special place” of Astrakhan among all the subjects of the Russian Federation. “We are bound together by historical, economic, social, cultural and moral ties.” “The bilateral ties between Azerbaijan and Astrakhan are, in a certain sense, an example to other subjects of the Russian Federation.” Mr. Hasanov hailed the event held in Astrakhan as “a sign of deep respect to national leader Heydar Aliyev”. Responding to a question on the possibility of launching direct flights between Baku and Astrakhan, the top Presidential Administration official said work “is going on this front”. “We are now considering the launch of either Baku-Astrakhan or Baku-Astrakhan-Volgograd flight,” he added.