The Kremlin understands the decision of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev not to participate in the informal summit of the CIS, because it understands that the heads of state have a tight schedule, said the press secretary of the Russian President, Dmitry Peskov.
The Kremlin spokesperson was asked whether Aliyev's absence from the CIS summit was a surprise.
"We fully understand. Indeed, all heads of state have a very busy schedule, especially in December, on the eve of the New Year," Peskov was quoted as saying by "RIA Novosti" agency.
Earlier, the Azerbaijani media reported that Aliyev will not participate in the informal summit of CIS leaders in St. Petersburg due to his tight work schedule.
