Azernews.Az

By Aynur Jafarova

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev awarded Governor of Russian Astrakhan Oblast with "Dostlug" (Friendship) Order.

On November 27, the Head of State signed a decree on awarding Alexander Zhilkin with such an honorable order for his services and contributions in the development of economic and cultural ties between Azerbaijan and Russia.

On the same day, President Aliyev received a Russian delegation led by Zhilkin.

The Astrakhan governor congratulated the Azerbaijani President on his re-election, noting he has been a witness to the rapid developments in Azerbaijan in recent years.

Touching upon cooperation between Azerbaijan and the Astrakhan Oblast, Zhilkin said trade has increased four times in the past few years, and expressed hope it will increase further.

The Head of State said bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Russia and also Azerbaijan's cooperation with the republics of the Russian Federation has been developing in all fields.

President Aliyev hailed Zhilkin's contribution to strengthening these bonds.

He noted the importance of reciprocal visits in terms of expanding friendly relations between Azerbaijan and the Astrakhan Oblast.

Touching upon joint projects, the president described the Astrakhan-Baku Park, which will be inaugurated in Baku, as a strong signal of friendship.

President Aliyev presented the order to the Astrakhan Governor afterwards, and Zhilkin expressed his gratitude to the Azerbaijani President for the award.