Azerbaijani Ambassador to Russia Rahman Mustafayev has outlined the current state of Azerbaijan-Russia relations, saying Baku sees possibilities for a renewed phase of cooperation following the resolution of disputes surrounding the 2024 crash of an Azerbaijani passenger plane near Grozny.

In an interview with Russian media, Mustafayev highlighted that issues related to the AZAL passenger aircraft incident, including compensation, had been settled and described the matter as a closed chapter in bilateral relations. He stressed that Azerbaijan now supports efforts to normalize ties and said that a decision had been taken to restore direct AZAL flights between Baku and three Russian cities.

The ambassador also pointed to continued political engagement between the two countries. He said the Azerbaijani and Russian presidents had reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation based on strategic partnership and alliance principles during telephone conversations in March and July. Mustafayev added that 30 bilateral high-level visits had taken place during the first seven months of 2026, compared with 66 in 2024 and 20 in 2025, which he described as a crisis-hit year for relations.

Mustafayev raised concerns about a negative information campaign against Azerbaijan in parts of the Russian media. He referred to statements by some Russian experts, bloggers and journalists that he said were insulting and provocative toward Azerbaijan and its leadership, and said Baku expected Moscow to take steps to address the issue.

The ambassador also discussed problems affecting the Azerbaijani community in Russia. Mustafayev cited the deaths of Azerbaijani citizens in a 2025 incident in Yekaterinburg, as well as pressure on representatives of the Azerbaijani community and cases involving the withdrawal of Russian citizenship from some Azerbaijanis.

According to Mustafayev, Azerbaijani and Russian communities living in each other’s countries could play a role in strengthening relations between the two states. He also stressed the importance of teaching the Azerbaijani language in Russian schools in areas with large Azerbaijani communities.

Looking ahead, the ambassador noted that new joint initiatives could provide a basis for another period of closer cooperation. Among the possibilities he mentioned were investment projects, the establishment of a joint university, cooperation over the Caspian Sea’s declining water level, cultural exchanges, expanded tourism and greater contact between civil-society groups.

He also suggested that Azerbaijan could potentially serve as a venue for dialogue or a communication channel in efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Referring to a closed-door meeting between Russian and German representatives held in Baku in July, Mustafayev stated that Azerbaijan consistently supports territorial integrity and respect for internationally recognized borders.

The comments underline Baku’s stated interest in rebuilding practical ties with Moscow while keeping unresolved political, media, and community-related issues within the bilateral agenda.