U.S, Washington, Nov. 20 / Trend News N.Bogdanova /

Section 907 of the 1992 Freedom Support Act is unjust and not a measure that should be in place against such a strong ally and strategic partner to the U.S. as Azerbaijan, former U.S. Secretary of Energy Federico Pena wrote Trend News in an e-mail.

"This amendment should be repealed," Pena added, who reported to former President Bill Clinton.

In October 1992, the U.S. Congress passed the "Freedom Support Act" regulating the provision of state aid to former Soviet republics.

Under Section 907 the U.S. prohibits public entities to provide assistance to Azerbaijan. The amendment has been suspended annually since 2002.

According to the former official, repealing Section 907 would remove significant impediments that prevent further strengthening U.S.-Azerbaijan bilateral relations.

"As one of the most significant actions that Congress could take to further efforts in the Caspian region the repeal of Section 907," he said. 

This statutory restriction on assistance to the government of Azerbaijan limits Washington's ability to advance U.S. interests in the country, Pena added.

The former secretary mentioned that when Japan, Iran or international financial institutions step in to fill the void, the U.S. loses influence, and U.S. businesses lose opportunities.

"The U.S. government needs the help of Congress in structuring regional assistance to encourage further economic reforms and developing an appropriate investment climate," he added.

Continued U.S. state support via technical assistance is essential in assisting these countries to establish strong market economies, and "we encourage the emergence of financially vibrant energy sectors," Pena said.

Do you have any feedback? Contact our journalist at: trend@trend.az