The traditionally organized Azerbaijani-Russian interregional forums have become an effective tool in strengthening the strategic partnership between the two friendly countries, according to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev's message to the participants of the fifth Azerbaijani-Russian interregional forum in Qabala region on June 23.
The head of the Public and Political Issues Department of Azerbaijani Presidential Administration, Ali Hasanov read out president's message.
"There is no doubt that today's event will also be useful to analyze the achievements and to discuss the relevant issues, to determine the priority areas and new forms of joint activity," according to the message. "Holding the forum in Qabala, having the ancient history of Azerbaijan's statehood, is a significant event. This region, characterized by picturesque landscape, ethnic and religious diversity, has become one of cultural and tourist centers of our country."
"The recent large-scale creative work in Qabala region helps organize representative local and international events here," President Aliyev stressed.
"I think that the next Azerbaijani-Russian interregional forum will be held at a high level and in a business atmosphere," the president's message said. "Currently, there is great potential for the development of trade-economic and humanitarian cooperation among Azerbaijan and the entities of the Russian Federation. The firm partnership and favorable investment situation in our countries create the necessary conditions for more active involvement of the private sector in the inter-regional economic relations. Proceeding from the positive experience gained in the sectors of energy, agriculture, banking, tourism, transport, we can set new targets for the near future."
Special attention must be paid to the humanitarian development and exchange of information, which are important components of this cooperation. It is necessary to prepare the projects and develop the effective mechanisms with clear prospects.
"I hope that the forum participants will hold constructive discussions on all agenda issues by appreciating this opportunity," the message noted. "They will take decisions which will be aimed at further intensifying of historical friendship relations between our two peoples. They will make a significant contribution to the development of Azerbaijani-Russian relations. I wish every success as part of the forum and health and new achievements to everybody."