Azerbaijani Defense Minister In Washington

U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel (left) and Azerbaijani Defense Minister Colonel General Safar Abiyev walk to the Pentagon during an honor cordon in Washington on August 5.

Azerbaijani Defense Minister Safar Abiyev has met in Washington with his U.S. counterpart Chuck Hagel.

A press release from the Pentagon on August 5 said Hagel thanked Abiyev and Azerbaijan for sending troops to Afghanistan and for "providing ground, air, and sea transit access for logistical support to Afghanistan."

The two defense chiefs also discussed Azerbaijan's participation in NATO programs.

Hagel brought up the recent inauguration of new Iranian President Hassan Rohani and "reiterated that is imperative that Iran take quick steps to resolve the international community's deep concerns over its nuclear program," according to the Pentagon press release.

The press release did not mention Abiyev's thoughts on the Iranian issue.

Based on reporting by ITAR-TASS and RFE/RL