On March 27, Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, inaugurated the renovated Azerbaijan State Musical Drama Theater in Derbent via video link, highlighting the cultural dimension of relations between Russia and Azerbaijan. "Relations between Russia and Azerbaijan develop on the solid basis of shared history and cultural heritage… I would like to thank the President of Azerbaijan for his support of the theater’s work," Putin stated, recalling that the Russian Drama Theater in Baku has been successfully operating for more than a century. He emphasized that the theater stages in Baku and Derbent serve as unique bridges between the two nations, strengthening humanitarian ties.

The Russian leader noted that the reopening of the theater would mark an important event for the cultural life of Dagestan, Russia, and the wider Caucasus region. He noted that the institution, whose history dates back to the 1880s, has long united individuals devoted to theatrical art, and that following extensive reconstruction it now operates in a modernized facility. Putin also emphasized that, through federal programs and with the involvement of regional authorities, private investors, and patrons, Russia continues to renovate and technically upgrade regional theaters. He described Derbent as a clear example of such coordinated efforts and thanked all those involved in the project. Stressing the importance of preserving traditions in Dagestan and ancient Derbent, he added that Russia’s uniqueness lies in the unity and diversity of its peoples. He expressed confidence that the renewed theater would further familiarize audiences with Azerbaijani culture.

Ilham Aliyev, the President of Azerbaijan, sent a congratulatory message on the occasion of the theater’s reopening after reconstruction. "Dear friends, I congratulate you on this significant occasion – the reopening of the Azerbaijan State Musical Drama Theater in Derbent following extensive reconstruction," Aliyev stated, expressing gratitude to the leadership of the Russian Federation and Dagestan for their attention to preserving this cultural and historical monument of the Azerbaijani people. He emphasized that the theater, with a history of more than a century, is among the oldest institutions of Azerbaijani national theatrical art and remains the only state theater in the Azerbaijani language within Russia. According to Aliyev, it has played a vital role in Dagestan’s cultural life and in preserving the national and spiritual values of Azerbaijanis living in the republic, while productions of prominent Azerbaijani playwrights have earned wide recognition beyond the region. Aliyev described the resumption of the theater’s activities as a "major, long-awaited celebration" for both the professional community and the broader public. He noted that Azerbaijan and Dagestan have long been connected by close ties of friendship, good-neighborliness, and mutual support, which continue to shape relations between Azerbaijan and Russia. "I am convinced that close cooperation, including in the cultural and humanitarian spheres… will continue to develop progressively," he stated, wishing the theater continued creative success.