Astara: Fyodor Bondarchuk, the People's Artist of Russia and renowned director, expressed his gratitude to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev for his crucial assistance in facilitating the safe passage of his group from Iran to Azerbaijan. Bondarchuk conveyed his thanks during a press interaction at the Astara border crossing.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Bondarchuk highlighted the pivotal role played by the Russian Embassy employees in Iran, who ensured the group's safe journey to the border. He acknowledged the support extended by the Russian Ministry of Culture and the National Media Group, which contributed to the successful passage of all 90 members of his group. Bondarchuk mentioned that while some members of the group would be flying out on the same day, others would remain in Baku temporarily before departing later. Despite the exhaustion from the journey, Bondarchuk expressed his appreciation for the collective efforts that ensured their safety.