European Parliament President's statements were added after 3rd and 11th paragraphs (first version was posted at 20.28)
Azerbaijan , Baku, May 20 /Trend, E.Ostapenko/
President of the European Parliament Jerzy Buzek called the European Parliament's resolution on the human rights situation in Azerbaijan as a manifestation of a natural dialogue between the partners.
"It is natural when the partners are discussing not only the issues on which they agree, but those issues that worry them both. Such a dialogue is important in order to move forward in cooperation," Buzek said to the closing press conference in Baku on May 20.
May 12 the European Parliament adopted a critical resolution on situation with human rights and democracy in Azerbaijan.
Baku negatively perceived adoption of such a document without the agreement of the Azerbaijani side. The Parliament of Azerbaijan sent a protest to the European Parliament resolution.
"The spirit of the resolution should be considered in light of the potential of European Parliament's cooperation with Azerbaijan, he said. - Azerbaijan is really a European country, and we have a dialogue in the spirit of true European partnership."
May 20, Buzek completed his first three-day visit to South Caucasus region. "Azerbaijan seems a fully European country, and we have a dialogue with Azerbaijan as an equal partner," he said.
In Baku, Buzek met with the President, Speaker of the Parliament, representatives of civil society, and is expected to meet with opposition.
Buzek said at the meetings with the leadership of Azerbaijan, he stressed that the issue of human rights, freedom of press, freedom of speech and assembly is the foundation of democracy.
"In Azerbaijan there are some sensible moments for him. First it is the independence of your country. I emphasize again: the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan is very important for the EU," he said.
But also the European Parliament and the European Union have their sensitive topics, and it is a question of human rights and freedom of speech, he said.
Buzek stressed the need to continue reforms in the country to protect fundamental rights and freedoms, positively noting the willingness of the Azerbaijani government to develop this area.
It is completely Azerbaijan's choice in what direction it will develop, said the President of the European Parliament. However, democratic reforms will only benefit the country and people.
"The purpose of my visit is not to intrude Azerbaijan to make some decisions, because Azerbaijan is an independent country. I came to share my experience," said Buzek.
Based on the experience of the EU, Buzek stressed once again that the establishment of civil society and democratic system will determine the stability and prosperity in the long-term period.
"Choice is Azerbaijan's. We can help with our experience, as the South-Eastern European countries 20 years ago were in similar realities that now exist in Azerbaijan."
