PUTIN-ALIYEV MEETING IN BEIJING REMAINS UNCONFIRMED

BEIJING—No formal talks have been scheduled between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Azerbaijani leader Ilham Aliyev during their upcoming visit to China, a senior Russian official confirmed Friday. Both heads of state are expected to attend ceremonies on September 3 commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

Yuri Ushakov, a senior foreign policy aide to the Russian president, indicated that while no bilateral meeting has been arranged, the possibility remains open. “Leaders will be present at the same events, seated at the same table,” Ushakov told reporters. “If there is mutual interest, a discussion could certainly take place.”

The commemorative events in Beijing will include a military parade honoring the Allied victory. Official reports indicate that more than two dozen foreign leaders are expected to participate in the ceremonies.