The release of 13 Russian citizens currently detained in Azerbaijan could become an important step toward normalizing relations between Moscow and Baku.

Axar.az informs Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said during a briefing on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum.

“The release of Russian citizens is a significant step toward improving the situation in relations between Russia and Azerbaijan,” the diplomat emphasized.

“The issue was discussed in detail during the meetings of the Russian-Azerbaijani Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation held in Astrakhan on August 22,” Zakharova added.

“The Azerbaijani delegation was fully informed of our country’s position.”

The Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman also recalled that consular officials had already arranged three visits to the Russian citizens in the Baku detention center on July 3, 14, and 23. “A request has been submitted for a fourth meeting, but the Azerbaijani side has not yet granted approval,” she said.

“We assume that such consent will be given.”