Azerbaijan's Cautious Cooperation with Russia

Azerbaijan is becoming more cooperative with Russia, albeit slowly and cautiously, as part of its strategy of diversifying foreign relationships. Baku and Moscow strengthened relations further Aug. 13, when Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Baku with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Ilham Aliyev. The two leaders signed several bilateral agreements on energy, economic and security issues. But the deals were left vague intentionally, giving Azerbaijani leaders plenty of flexibility as they make sure their country does not become overly reliant on any one external power.