Aliyev invites Russian companies to Artsakh

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev stated in an interview with RIA Novosti that media reports regarding Turkey’s plans to establish a military base in Azerbaijan are mere political speculation.

The interview was conducted by Dmitry Kiselev, General Director of Russia Today international media group. The president labeled the information about the plans for a Turkish military base in Azerbaijan as disinformation, noting that it is nearly impossible to conceal a military base in any part of the world today.

“This is both Azerbaijan’s and Turkey’s obligation to provide assistance if any country faces an external threat or aggression,” Aliyev clarified.

He noted that during more than 30 years of military cooperation between the countries, Turkey and its military agencies have played a significant role in the modernization and combat readiness of the Azerbaijani army, as well as in operational planning, situational analysis, and in “raising military intelligence to high standards.” He highlighted that thanks to Ankara, Baku has achieved a “high degree of effectiveness in military operations.”

“We are very grateful to our Turkish friends for such assistance,” Aliyev stated.

He also announced that Baku is looking forward to Russian investments for the “restoration of Karabakh and would be pleased to see Russian companies there.”