President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has today received a delegation led by Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation Valery Gerasimov.

The head of state said the Azerbaijani side was pleased to create conditions for another meeting of Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Valery Gerasimov with his western counterparts. President Ilham Aliyev said these negotiations contribute to preventing risks and strengthening mutual confidence.

"We are interested in reducing tension on a global scale and we are pleased to hold these important talks for the second time in Baku." President Ilham Aliyev described Baku`s hosting these talks as an example of confidence in Azerbaijan and a clear manifestation of bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Russia. The head of state highlighted successful cooperation between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation in military and military-technical areas as well as in all other fields.

Touching upon the recently held International Army Games, President Ilham Aliyev said Azerbaijan also hosts these competitions. The head of state said that despite joining these games not long ago, Azerbaijan has already become an active participant.

President Ilham Aliyev expressed his confidence that military, military-technical cooperation between the two countries will continue to successfully develop. The President added that Valery Gerasimov`s visit is the good opportunity to discuss the issues on the agenda and cooperation prospects.

Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Valery Gerasimov said the Russian Federation and the Republic of Azerbaijan successfully cooperate in all fields, including military and military-technical spheres. He said the two countries enjoy traditionally friendly relations, describing Azerbaijan as Russia`s strategic partner.

Touching upon the International Army Games, Valery Gerasimov noted that if last year the Azerbaijani team competed in two events, this year it participated in five competitions and organized one of the events.

They also exchanged views over cooperation prospects.