Azerbaijan, Baku, Nov. 16 / Trend E.Huseynli /
Azerbaijani Presidential Administration Social and Political Department Chief Ali Hasanov has today stated that allegations that 1 billion manat was allocated for preparation and conduct of the Eurovision Song Contest-2012 in Baku contradict the reality.
"The figure is groundless," Mr. Hasanov told Trend. He was commenting on the recent media reports.
"The recent media reports that several objects will be built and prepared to hold the Eurovision-2012 at the state level is the result of journalistic fantasy. The statement on the real situation has already been made. Three places can be considered as the venue for this event," Hasanov said.
He said the places suggested to hold the event are the Heydar Aliyev Sports-Concert Complex, Tofig Bahramov Stadium and a concert venue, which is currently under construction. "But, a separate funding in the amount of 1 billion manat from the state budget was allocated for neither of them under the pretext of Eurovision-2012," Mr.Hasanov said.
Mr. Hasanov said there is a Presidential decision and the Finance Ministry's decision on financing the event.
The 57th Eurovision song contest will be held in Azerbaijan. The semi-finals of the competition will be held on May 22 and 24 and final - May 26.