Political Strife? Azerbaijan Bans Entry for Russian Politicians

Azerbaijan has added Russian deputy Nikolai Valuev to its list of persona non grata. The decision was prompted by his remarks about the Azerbaijani community following the closure of the Russian House in Baku, reports NewsBox.

The Azerbaijani authorities have banned entry for State Duma deputy Nikolai Valuev, adding him to the list of persona non grata. This decision was taken by the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs following his comments about the Azerbaijani diaspora in Russia. The politician's remarks were made in the context of the closure of the Rossotrudnichestvo Representation – the Russian House – in Baku.

Valuev stated on his Telegram channel that Azerbaijani communities in Russia wield significant influence and are capable of affecting political processes. He noted that these structures are involved not only in cultural matters but also in creating economic and criminal networks. The deputy suggested increasing oversight over them, including checks for illegal migration, tax evasion, and hostile takeovers.

Nikolai Valuev has become the third member of United Russia to be banned from entering Azerbaijan. Previously, his colleagues from the State Duma, Konstantin Zatulin and Vitaly Milonov, were also added to a similar list.