Tehran, 18 May 2002 (RFE/RL) -- Azerbaijani President Heidar Aliyev arrived in Tehran today for a three-day visit aimed at easing tensions between Azerbaijan and Iran. Aliyev is to meet Iran's President Mohammad Khatami later today for talks expected to include the status of the disputed Caspian Sea. An Iranian official said the leaders are expected to sign a friendship agreement.
Aliyev is also due to meet with parliament speaker Mehdi Karroubi, Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi, and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Azerbaijan and Iran have been linked by a friendship pact since 1994, but Aliyev has reportedly been pressing for a stronger treaty.
Aliyev is also due to meet with parliament speaker Mehdi Karroubi, Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi, and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Azerbaijan and Iran have been linked by a friendship pact since 1994, but Aliyev has reportedly been pressing for a stronger treaty.