Azerbaijan, Baku, 11 April / corr. Trend I.Izzet /
Following news that authorities had closed Free Thought University's (FTU) facility on April 10, U.S. Ambassador to Azerbaijan Richard Morningstar met the FTU group to give his previously scheduled speech.
The ambassador stated he was particularly disappointed to hear that authorities closed Free Thought University's office.
"I believe that respect for peaceful protests, independent and transparent courts, and government engagement with citizens, especially its young citizens, to address their legitimate concerns are the best and most effective ways democratic governments can secure their fundamental stability," Ambassador Morningstar said.
The ambassador stressed that Azerbaijan is a strong and valued partner of the United States in the areas of regional and energy security, but he noted that they are part of a larger relationship that includes democratic and economic reform.
It should be noted that the Prosecutor General of Azerbaijan has released a statement, according to which the information about the alleged suspension of the activities of the Free Thought University on the part of the Prosecutor General is not true and bluntly denied the report.