Azerbaijan, Baku, 25 June / Trend corr E. Babayev/ "United States as a friend of Azerbaijan is interested in improvement of democratic institutes in the country," US Ambassador to Azerbaijan Anne Derse said at the Central Election Committee (CEC) during her meeting with CEC Chairman Mazahir Panahov on 25 June.
On 15 October, Azerbaijan will hold presidential elections. USA reported it intends to spend $3mln for the elections. The funds will be spent through different NGOs for education.
Derse said United States intends to implement a large-scale program due to the elections. She said free, just and democratic elections prove presence of democracy in the country. Derse said she was following preparations at CEC for the elections, adding that education programs carried out by CEC for lower election committees and specification of voters' lists should be appreciated. She inquired about CEC plans on preparations for the elections.
Panahov praised cooperation with the Ambassador of USA - Azerbaijan's strategic ally - and said the views of both countries' leaders coincide in the field of development of democracy in the country. CEC chairman said all required steps would be made to hold just, transparent and democratic presidential elections and the suffrage of Azerbaijani citizens would be completely ensured.
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