Official news
On 15 May the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev , signed a decree awarding a number of cultural workers of Azerbaijan. According to the decree, eight workers were awarded title 'Honorable Art Worker', 17 workers 'Honorable Artist', three workers 'Honorable Painter' and eight workers 'Honorable Cultural Worker'.
On 15 May the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev , signed a decree confirming the State Program on Implementation of Azerbaijan's Employment Strategy (2007-2010). According to the decree, Cabinet of Ministers is in charge of taking measures to implement the first stage of the employment strategy. The State Program will be coordinated by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population.
On 15 May the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev , received the Justice Ministry of Bulgaria, Georgy Petkanov . The President of Azerbaijan expressed his satisfaction with the development of bilateral relations and cooperation within international organizations. Aliyev said that the mutual visits of the State Heads of the two countries will further strengthen the cooperation of the two countries. The guest stated that his country is interested in cooperating with Azerbaijan in all spheres. The Bulgarian Minister said that relations between the Justice Ministries of the two countries also serve the development of general bilateral relations.
On 15 May the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev , received the Justice Ministry of Bulgaria, Georgy Petkanov . The President of Azerbaijan expressed his satisfaction with the development of bilateral relations and cooperation within international organizations. Aliyev said that the mutual visits of the State Heads of the two countries will further strengthen the cooperation of the two countries. The guest stated that his country is interested in cooperating with Azerbaijan in all spheres. The Bulgarian Minister said that relations between the Justice Ministries of the two countries also serve the development of general bilateral relations.
Vakhtang Chanadiri , the military attache of Georgian Embassy in Baku, announced that talks on the formation of peacemaking forces of Georgia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan and Moldova will be finalized during the summit of heads of state of GUAM, a regional organization among Georgia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan and Moldova, due in Baku in June.
Prior to the meeting of the heads of state, at the end of May, Moldova will host a meeting of the GUAM military experts on the formation of the peacemaking forces. The military attache did not disclose the details of the peacemaking forces structure or the exact date of the meeting.
The second summit of heads of state of the Organization for Democracy and Economic Development -GUAM will be held in Baku on 19 June. Prior to the summit, the Council of Foreign Ministers and the Committee of National Coordinators will meet to organize the itinerary of the event.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on 16 May to award Arif Agayev the title of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary. On the strength of that decree, an additional presidential decree was awarded to Arif Agayev as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Kyrgyzstan.
The Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev received 16 May a delegation headed by the president and the chief xecutive director of Hhess corporation, John Khess .
John Khess voiced his satisfaction with the activities of the company in Azerbaijan and informed the President of further activities of the corporation in the country.
Azerbaijani President noted the favourable conditions created in the country for activities of foreign companies.
On 17 May, the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev , received the delegation headed by the Vice-Speaker of NATO Parliamentary Assembly and Head of the representation of the Romanian Government to NATO, Mikhail Lupou .
On 17 May, the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev , received the delegation headed by the Vice-Speaker of NATO Parliamentary Assembly and Head of the representation of the Romanian Government to NATO, Mikhail Lupou .
Lupou stressed that recently the Government of Romania made a decision on registering the Heydar Aliyev Foundation's South-East European Representation. The President highly assessed the decision of the Romanian Government. The meeting also covered the bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Romania, as well as parliamentary relations, including Azerbaijan's co-operation with the NATO Parliamentary Assembly.
The Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev stated at a meeting with residents of the Mehdiabad village of Baku on 17 May that at present there is no alternative to talks on resolving the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.
In this respect Azerbaijan continues its talks on a peaceful level. "An alternative to talks is war and Azerbaijan should be prepared for this," the head of state stressed.
President Aliyev said that Azerbaijan's economic potential is becoming consolidated, and the country receives a large capital which will be spent on the political consolidation and strengthening of its military regime. Azerbaijan will never accept a resolution which contradicts its national interests," the President emphasized.
He also noted that earlier Azerbaijan was on the same level with Armenia regarding its economy growth rate, and now Azerbaijan has significantly superseded this level. Aliyev said that Armenia has no economic prospects and the key source of its income is foreign assistance which will be terminated eventually. The head of the state said that Azerbaijan is self-reliant.
President Aliyev concluded that he counts on the support of the nation while defining the country's foreign policy.
Chan, the World Health Organization (WHO) General Director, will visit Azerbaijan at the invitation of Azerbaijan's First Lady, Mehriban Aliyeva , who is also President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador and ISESCO Goodwill Ambassador.
Chan, the World Health Organization (WHO) General Director, will visit Azerbaijan at the invitation of Azerbaijan's First Lady, Mehriban Aliyeva , who is also President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador and ISESCO Goodwill Ambassador.
Elchin Amirbeyov , the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Switzerland and Head of Azerbaijan's Permanent Representation to UN Geneva Department and International Organizations reported that Aliyeva conveyed an invitation to the WHO leader during her visit to Geneva.
The meeting discussed expansion of WHO's activities in Azerbaijan, including prospects for the Heydar Aliyev Foundation's cooperation with the WHO on humanitarian health projects.
Chan appraised the Heydar Aliyev Foundation's activities in Azerbaijan in implementing projects on health and voiced her interest in cooperation which will be further discussed during the General Director's visit. The embassy will be setting up arrangements for Ms. Chan's visit to Azerbaijan, Amirbeyov stressed.
The diplomat reported that during the meeting the WHO Director General congratulated the First Lady on her being awarded the WHO prize in the category 'For Exclusive Services and Mother, Child and Family Health Protection'. The First Lady was presented the award on 17 May within the framework of the session.
The international community should focus its attention on the settlement of the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Such a statement was made by the President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and Goodwill Ambassador of both UNESCO and ISESCO, the First Lady of Azerbaijan, Mehriban Aliyeva , on 18 May in the opening ceremony of the Azerbaijani room in Nation Palace, stated Elchin Amirbeyov , the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Switzerland and also Head of Azerbaijan's Permanent Representation to UN Geneva Department and international organizations, on 18 May.
The First Lady of Azerbaijan regretfully stressed that presently the member of UNO, Azerbaijan, is under military conflict, but the UN's four resolutions on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement have not yet been implemented. She called on the international community to turn its attention to the conflict. The opening ceremony was attended by Director General of UN Geneva Department, Sergey Ordjankidze , Ambassador of the foreign countries in Geneva, representatives of the international organizations. According to Amirbeyov , before the ceremony, Aliyeva met with the Director General of UN Geneva Department, Sergey Ordjankidze . The meeting focused on the prospects of the co-operation between Azerbaijan and the UN. Ordjankidze highly assessed the efforts of Azerbaijan to expand the co-operation with the UN and voiced confidence for future effective co-operation.
The First Lady of Azerbaijan spoke of the real development of Azerbaijan and invited Director General of UN Geneva Department to visit Azerbaijan. The Ambassador said that the date of the visit will be confirmed through diplomatic channels. Mehriban Aliyeva's visit will conclude on 18 May. In Geneva, the World Health Organization awarded Mehriban Aliyeva 'For Exclusive Services in Protecting and Strengthening the Health of Mothers, Children and Families'.
On 18 May the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev , received the delegation headed by the Foreign Minister of Hungary, King Genth . The Hungarian Foreign Minister said that relations between Azerbaijan and Hungary are successfully developing. Genth said that the meetings in Azerbaijan will cover the development prospects of the relations with regards to energy, agriculture and other fields. The Hungarian guest said that the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev , referred to how Azerbaijan attaches a great importance to the development of its relations with Hungary. The President said that the co-operation between Azerbaijan and the European Union is entering a new stage especially with Azerbaijan joining the New Neighborhood Policy of the European Union.
The First Joint Forum of Azerbaijani Youths will take place in Russia in 2008, reported the Head of the Representation of Heydar Aliyev Foundation in Russia, Leyla Aliyeva , on 14 May.
She was commenting on the European Forum of Azerbaijani Youths which is taking place on 14 May in the Russian Federation. According to her, the Forum of Azerbaijani Youths in Europe is taking place in the building of the European Parliament in Brussels on parwith the Moscow event. "We have invited them to Russia and will hold the First Joint Forum with them," Aliyeva added.
Highlighting the importance of the Moscow event, she mentioned the significance of solidarity and expediency of the Azerbaijani youths. "I am inspired and fully satisfied with the Azerbaijani youths. It is important for us to represent Azerbaijan justly to the world," Aliyeva said.
She stated that the Moscow Forum brings together representatives of the youth organizations from different regions in Russia. "We are working on the same level to represent Azerbaijan in the international arena, in this case, in Russia. This Forum is significant to unify various organizations and co-ordinate their activities. It is a guarantee to achieve the facing goals and tasks," Aliyeva said.
Speaking of the plans of Heydar Aliyev Foundation in Russia, Leyla Aliyeva said that the activities of the Foundation are directed towards cultural, educational and social-humanitarian programs and work will be continued in this respect. "There are many cultural programs which are aimed at representing Azerbaijan. The international world should know about Azerbaijan," Leyla Aliyeva concluded.
Parliament Parliament
MP Hadi Rajabli , the chairman of the permanent parliamentary commission on social policy of Azerbaijan, said on 15 May that some restrictions should be applied to the allowances of internally restricted persons.
"Not all those who have the status of displaced persons or refugees are poor. I believe allowances should be targeted in connection to this as well. Corresponding organizations should hold a monitoring on this occasion," the chairman added.
According to Rajabli , changes in payment of allowances will enable poor families to receive social aid. "Formerly in order to receive social aid one had to submit 17 documents, now there are only five. The move is a progressive one. The process is new to Azerbaijan and difficulties in connection to this are natural," the MP added.
An internally displaced person in Azerbaijan receives AZN 9 a month. The number of the recipients exceeds 800.
On 15 May, the Azerbaijan Parliament's Permanent Commission on Economic Policy discussed the draft law on Implementation of the 2006 State Budget.
The Chairman of the Commission, Ziyad Samedzade , stressed that this draft law is vital and describes social-economic changes in Azerbaijan in 2006.
The Deputy Finance Minister of Azerbaijan, Azer Bayramov , wrote a report on the implementation of the 2006 State budget. In addition to the successful implementation of the State budget, last year the realization of global projects such as Baku-Tbilisi- Ceyhan was completed, the non-oil sector and regional entrepreneurship developed. The draft law describes the income of the budget to be AZN 3,868,773,000 and the outgoing to be AZN 3,790,123,600.
In addition, the Commission discussed the draft laws on Internal Audit and on the obligatory insurance of civil legal responsibilities of auditors. The draft laws were recommended to be considered by Parliament.
MP Fazil Gazanfarogli , of Azerbaijan Parliament's Disciplinary Committee, stated on 18 May that MP Huseyi Abdullayev , who has been sentenced to a suspended term of imprisonment, cannot continue his MP activity in accordance with the Azerbaijan legislation.
MP Fazil Gazanfarogli , of Azerbaijan Parliament's Disciplinary Committee, stated on 18 May that MP Huseyi Abdullayev , who has been sentenced to a suspended term of imprisonment, cannot continue his MP activity in accordance with the Azerbaijan legislation.
Gazanfarogli noted that Abdullayev had the right to complain about the Sabail District Court's sentence. If the Supreme Court enforces the sentence, however, Abdullayev's MP mandate will be liquidated.
In spite of the Azerbaijani Prosecutor General bringing an action against Abdullayev in accordance with the Articles 132 (slaughter) and 221.2.2 (hooliganism) of the Criminal Code of the country, the Article 132 was excluded from the case.
The MP was charged in accordance with the Articles 221.2 (hooliganism) and 128 (intentional damage to health).
The MP immunity of Abdullayev was liquidated in accordance with the request of the Procurator General at the extraordinary meeting of the Parliament on 19 March and the MP was arrested the same day.
Due to the incident by the decision of the Disciplinary Commission of the Parliament, Fazil Agamali was rebuked.
Foreign policy
Robin Seaword , deputy head of the OSCE Baku Office, Azerbaijan is becoming popular worldwide for its unique tolerance, the Jewish village of Red Sloboda being an example of this. He was commenting on the foreign diplomatic mission's visit to the Azerbaijani village of Red Sloboda in the district of Guba , approximately 173km north of Baku.
The diplomatic mission organized by the Israeli embassy in Azerbaijan, includes France, Belarus, Ukraine, India, Switzerland, Moldova, Poland, Germany, Italy, UN, OSCE and others. They visited Secondary School 1, Eshiva College, the synagogue and talked to local citizens.
The diplomatic mission organized by the Israeli embassy in Azerbaijan, includes France, Belarus, Ukraine, India, Switzerland, Moldova, Poland, Germany, Italy, UN, OSCE and others. They visited Secondary School 1, Eshiva College, the synagogue and talked to local citizens.
Seaword stressed that Red Sloboda is a unique place not only for Azerbaijan, but also for the world. "Several languages are taught in one village. It is very splendid and attractive," the OSCE representative stressed after the being familiarised with the local education system of at secondary schools of Red Sloboda , where Azerbaijani, Russia, Hebrew, Tat and Lezgi are taught.
Seaword stressed that Red Sloboda is a unique place not only for Azerbaijan, but also for the world. "Several languages are taught in one village. It is very splendid and attractive," the OSCE representative stressed after the being familiarised with the local education system of at secondary schools of Red Sloboda , where Azerbaijani, Russia, Hebrew, Tat and Lezgi are taught.
Stepan Volkovetskiy , the Ukrainian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, said in talks with journalists that he had repeatedly heard about the residence of different nationalities and different religions over many centuries. "Now we are assured that indeed the traditions of not only the original Azerbaijanis, but also other nations are respected in this country. I came to the conclusion that it is not accidental that the mountainous Jews selected this land. This land enabled them to develop and live in the way that they imagined," the diplomat stressed.
History of Jewish settlements in Azerbaijan date from over 2,500 years. Jews settled in Red Sloboda some 280 years ago. The maximum number of mountainous Jews in this region comprised of 15,000 in 1938-1939. At present nearly 4,000 mountainous Jews reside in this Azerbaijani village.
History of Jewish settlements in Azerbaijan date from over 2,500 years. Jews settled in Red Sloboda some 280 years ago. The maximum number of mountainous Jews in this region comprised of 15,000 in 1938-1939. At present nearly 4,000 mountainous Jews reside in this Azerbaijani village.
Abbasali Hasanov , the Azerbaijani Ambassador to Iran, reported on 14 May from Teheran that the number of the Iranians passing to Azerbaijan via Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of Azerbaijan (NAR) increased 25 times during the last two weeks.
The Ambassador noted that over 800 people a day come to Azerbaijan since the paid visa regime between Iran and NAR was abolished. Before putting into practice the new regulations some 30 people crossed the border a day. Hasanov noted that the number of the Iranian citizens wishing to visit Azerbaijan is increasing every day. They arrive in Azerbaijan for tourism, medical treatment or to visit relatives.
On 1 May, Azerbaijan and Iran abolished the charge for a visa (€35) for residents of NAR and the citizens of Iran. The new regulations were put into practice on the basis of a Memorandum signed between Azerbaijan's and Iran's Foreign Ministers in November, 2005.
A 20-day visa providing unlimited travel in Iran will allow foreigners to drop in any place of the country. In order to be issued with a visa one has to submit a photo and a medical certificate to the Iranian Embassy in Azerbaijan.
The OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Miguel Angel Moratinos , stated that his visit to the region is aimed at accelerating Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement. In addition, he appealed to the Heads of Azerbaijan and Armenia. The Ambassador will visit Azerbaijan on 4 June and Armenia on 5 June. "I call on the Governments of Azerbaijan and Armenia to take measures in accordance with existing situation, come to a conclusion on the prolonged conflict and do all the best in this regard," Moratinos said.
Support informationto the Azerbaijani Government of democratic civil society, protection of women's rights, and establishment of gender equality in the country will be the key trend of future activities of the newly-established Azerbaijan Women Association of Lawyers.
The Azerbaijani Government has undertaken a number of obligations to the international organizations, the implementation of which mainly depend upon social organizations, the United States Ambassador to Azerbaijan Anne Derse stated on14 May at the press conference relating to the Association's first activities.
Amongst the principles of a society with developed democracy, the Ambassador called for sustaining freedom of speech, respect for human rights, law observance and enlightenment of civil society. The Association can play an important role in the exemplifying the principles, the Ambassador noted.
The Association has been established with the assistance of the American Bar Association's Central Europe and Eurasia Legal Initiative (ABA CEELI). The head of the ABA CEELI office, Frank Gesre , stated at the press conference that financial support is provided by the US Agency for International Development. The Association is designed to offer assistance to women in resolving their social problems.
The Ambassador of Russia to Azerbaijan, Vasily Istratov , said at a press conference on 15 May that Russia may consider the issue of jointly using Gabala Radio Radar Station with the USA.
The Ambassador of Russia to Azerbaijan, Vasily Istratov , said at a press conference on 15 May that Russia may consider the issue of jointly using Gabala Radio Radar Station with the USA.
" USA has repeatedly demonstrated its interest in receiving information from these and other radar stations owned by Russia, including Gabala station leased by Russia in Azerbaijan," the Ambassador said. With regards to the firm response from Russia, the diplomat said that everything depends upon the proposal by USA. At present the Ambassador believes that it is possible to come to an agreement.
Russia leases Gabala Radio Radar Station in Azerbaijan. The station is part of the Russian system tracking movement of the ballistic missiles. The station had been constructed during the power of former Soviet Union as one of the significant elements of the anti-missile system of the USSR. After Azerbaijan regained its independence and owned the station, Russia offered to use it. A ten-year agreement to rent the station was signed only in 2002. At the end of 2004 the Ministry of Ecology
Azerbaijan has passed the chairmanship of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) to Pakistan, the Third Secretary of the Azerbaijani Embassy to Pakistan, Sabir Rzayev , said on May 15.
The ceremony was held in Islamabad (the capital of Pakistan) during the 34th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the OIC. The Pakistani President Parviz Musharraf was also in attendance.
Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Emar Mammadyarov delivered a speech at the meeting where he summed up the activities carried out by Azerbaijan as the chairman of the OIC.
The coming to power of Nicola Sarcozy will not change anything with regards to the relationships between Azerbaijan and France, the director of the research program at the Institute of Strategic and International Relations of France, politician Lor Delkur stated.
The coming to power of Nicola Sarcozy will not change anything with regards to the relationships between Azerbaijan and France, the director of the research program at the Institute of Strategic and International Relations of France, politician Lor Delkur stated.
Delkur reported on May 15 that last winter the French Senate did not adopt the law in favour of criminal responsibility for the fabricated genocide by Armenian people, and therefore proved its neutrality towards the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Moreover, in her opinion, Azerbaijan is an important economic partner for France in the Caucasus. France takes 6th place in foreign trade turnover of Azerbaijan and 4th place amongst its foreign investors. The Baku-Tbilisi- Ceyhan pipeline has provided new opportunities for French oil companies.
Moreover, in her opinion, Azerbaijan is an important economic partner for France in the Caucasus. France takes 6th place in foreign trade turnover of Azerbaijan and 4th place amongst its foreign investors. The Baku-Tbilisi- Ceyhan pipeline has provided new opportunities for French oil companies.
Delkur noted that since 1997 France had been the co-chairman of the OSCE Minsk Group on the peaceful settlement of the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. According to Delkur , France maintains its relationships with Azerbaijan through the European Union and the European Neighbourhood Policy program. Azerbaijan jointed the program in 2004.
After the fall of the USSR, France began to develop the policy of Russia's leadership in the region resting upon historical bonds. However, in 1992-1994 the country began showing interest in the CIS countries and the relationships between Azerbaijan and France began to develop, especially in the last decade. In 1993, an agreement on friendship and co-operation with Azerbaijan was signed. A number of top-rank visits have been made since 1993 -1994. The first official visit of Azerbaijani President Heydar Aliyev to France was made in January, 1997. Ilham Aliyev (current president) visited France in 2004.
Nicola Sarcozy was elected president on May 6. He received 53% of the votes. Sarcozy's main rival, Segolen Ruayal , received 47% of the votes. The inauguration of the new President will take place on May 16. , received 47% of the votes. The inauguration of the new President will take place on May 16.
Armenia's non-constructive position in peace talks meets the interests of only a particular group in the country according to Araz Azimov , Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister; the Azerbaijani President's personal representative was speaking on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict on 16 May. Azimov urged Armenian society to think over how its actions affect its own interests. According to the Deputy Foreign Minister, only one particular group of people are satisfied with Armenia's approach to the peace talks but not all of its public is content. Mr. Azimov added that Armenia had not benefited in any way from the war with Azerbaijan and the occupation of Azerbaijani territories.
The peace talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia should be continued within the framework of the Prague Process, Azimov said. As to the statements on the negotiations made by the US Co-Chairman of the OSCE Minsk Group, Mathew Bryze , Azimov said that the statements reflect the interests of the United States. Mr. Bryze's statements are an attempt on behalf of the Minsk Group to inform the rest of the world of the conflict.
As to the statements by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on secret details of the peace negotiations, Azimov stated they would not negatively affect the settlement of the Karabakh problem. "President Aliyev will, in a principal way and in proper time, clarify his position. From this point his statement will not negatively affect the negotiation process," he noted.
The US Civil Researches Azerbaijan, the director of the Fund, Fred Johnson, said on 17 May during a briefing in Baku.
The Fund has allotted $680,000 to implement the projects, which will cover economics, health protection, ecology, education, communication and IT. Talks with corresponding Ministries are in progress.
Formerly, CRDF allocated 52 grants involving 214 research workers to Azerbaijan. The contribution of the organization to the country totalled $2.5mln.
CRDF was established at the US Congress 12 years ago. The purpose of the organization is to work with post-soviet republics and to establish contact amongst scientists of these countries and the US. According to Johnson, amongst the Caucasus countries, the Fund mostly sympathizes with Azerbaijan and welcomes Azerbaijan's administration policy directed towards developing the non-oil sector.
The Consular General of Azerbaijan to St. Petersburg, Gudsi Osmanov , said on 17 May by telephone that the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev , is expected to attend the summit of the State Heads of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) which will take place on 10 June in St. Petersburg. The diplomat said that the Consulate General of Azerbaijan is working on the preparation of the meetings of the President. According to Osmanov , the President of Azerbaijan has also received an invitation from the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin , to attend the 11th Petersburg International Economic Forum scheduled to take place on 8-10 June in St. Petersburg. The President of Azerbaijan will possibly attend the forum, the Consular General said.
Organized by the Fund of Petersburg International Economic Forum, the event is aimed at assisting in developing partnerships between business people, political leaders and intellectuals of the international community, and discussing and resolving global problems with world economic development.
The Chairman of the State Committee on Land and Cartography, Garib Mammadov , said on 18 May, that the State Commission on Delimitation and Demarcation of the Lands Between Azerbaijan and Georgia did not receive an order on giving the David Garechy Complex to Georgia. The information on the agreement to be reached only by the Presidents of the two countries regarding the David Garechy Complex does not correspond to reality, Mammadov said. According to him, these issues are not resolved by the Presidents, but by the bilateral commissions. "Devising documents, maps and defining borders are at the disposal of the commissions. We have not received an order regarding this issue," Mammadov added. The Commission on Delimitation and Demarcation does not determine the borders of any churches and historical monuments, he concluded. . The information on the agreement to be reached only by the Presidents of the two countries regarding the David Garechy Complex does not correspond to reality, Mammadov said. According to him, these issues are not resolved by the Presidents, but by the bilateral commissions. "Devising documents, maps and defining borders are at the disposal of the commissions. We have not received an order regarding this issue," Mammadov added. The Commission on Delimitation and Demarcation does not determine the borders of any churches and historical monuments, he concluded.
The Ambassador of Turkey to Azerbaijan, Huseyn Avni Karsipglu , who is visiting Ganja city of Azerbaijan, said on 18 May that a Turkish Consulate is planned for Ganja.
The Ambassador's meeting with the Head of Ganja Executive Power, Eldar Azizov , focused on the expansion of the economic and cultural relations between Azerbaijan and Turkey, beginning with tourism and agriculture. In addition, consultations are presently being held to open the branch of the Turkish Anatoly Lyceum in Ganja. "Work must be carried out in order to expand the economic relations between the business people of Azerbaijan and Turkey. Cooperating in agriculture would prove to be expedient. For instance, it is possible to apply justified experience of growing various kinds of fruits and vegetables in the rural regions of Azerbaijan and export the products to the world market," the Ambassador said.
Azerbaijan is an essential partner for the European Union (EU) and Hungary, the Foreign Minister of Hungary, Kinga Hentz , stated on 18 May during a briefing in Baku on the results of the talks with her Azerbaijani counterpart Elmar Mammadyarov .
According to Hentz , Hungary which has been a member of EU for over 3 years, can support Azerbaijan in its integration into the organization. A wide range of bilateral and regional relationships was discussed during the talks. Both parties exchanged their views on co-operation in the energy field.
According to Hentz , Hungary which has been a member of EU for over 3 years, can support Azerbaijan in its integration into the organization. A wide range of bilateral and regional relationships was discussed during the talks. Both parties exchanged their views on co-operation in the energy field.
Hentz stated that Hungary was interested in the export of Azerbaijani gas. The matter will be discussed during negotiations with Azerbaijan which are to be held by the head of the Hungarian oil and gas company, who is a member of the delegation.
The situation regarding the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict was considered by the ministers at the meeting. Hentz invited Mammadyarov to pay an official visit to Hungary.
The situation regarding the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict was considered by the ministers at the meeting. Hentz invited Mammadyarov to pay an official visit to Hungary.
Mammadyarov reported at the briefing that Azerbaijan was interested in all-round co-operation with Hungary. "For this purpose, during the meeting we contemplated opening a Hungarian Embassy in Azerbaijan," he said.
According to the Azerbaijani foreign minister, the turnover between the two countries has increased by 169%. "We intend to raise the level of turnover in the non-oil sector," he stated. An agreement of co-operation in promoting mutual investments was signed as a result of the talks.
The German Ambassador in Azerbaijan, Per Stankina , has blamed Azerbaijan for refusing to participate in talks regarding the 6,500 Azerbaijani citizens residing in Germany.
He noted that every country carries a responsibility for its citizens. However, Germany is facing difficulties as Azerbaijan does not agree with the country to hold negotiations and is trying to avoid the situation.
A source at the State Committee on Work with Azerbaijanis Residing Abroad said that the number of Azerbaijanis residing in Germany did not reach 6,000 and noted that the Committee had no contact with them.
According to the data provided by Germany, some 6,500 Azerbaijani citizens moved to Germany after the split of the Soviet Union to find political asylum. Azerbaijani citizens of Armenian nationality are also amongst them. However, the German government refused to provide them with refugee status and believes that Azerbaijan is now able to repatriate them. For over 15 years the migrants from Azerbaijan have been living on Germany's public budget, which annually totals €40mln.
The Embassy of Azerbaijan in Russia held a meeting with the Director of CIS Department of the Foreign Ministry of Russia, A.Kelin and presented a protect note of the Embassy to him with regards to the conference 'Challenge of Mrav ' scheduled to take place on 27 May 2007 and dedicated to the history and destiny of the territory of Goranboy district of Azerbaijan. The Embassy's note says that the possible conduct of the action, which is aimed at presenting distorted information to the Russian community regarding Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and bringing harms to the Azerbaijani-Russian relations, will adversely affect the future development of the bilateral relations. It was stated that repeatedly conducting such provocation events very adversely affect Azerbaijan's public opinion and spirit of the Azerbaijani diasporas in Russia. A serious anxiety was mentioned with regards to the dangerous tendencies of the recently formed anti-Azerbaijan propaganda and the activities of the forces who are not interested in the development of the Azerbaijani-Russian relations. It was mentioned that such negative actions appear in the background of the progressive development of the multilateral co-operation between Azerbaijan and Russia. For this reason, the diplomatic mission of Azerbaijan appealed to the Foreign Ministry of Russia with a challenge to take complex measures to prevent above-mentioned tendencies and create an atmosphere which meets the spirit and level of the Azerbaijani-Russian relations. The protest note of the Azerbaijani Embassy had also been forwarded to the Foreign Ministry of Russia with regards to presentation of the separate stand of Nagorno-Karabakh in 7th international tourism exhibition in Russia. The note of the Embassy and protest of the Azerbaijani community in Russia was ignored and the stand of Nagorno-Karabakh was presented in the above-mentioned exhibition which takes place from 17-20 May. was ignored and the stand of Nagorno-Karabakh was presented in the above-mentioned exhibition which takes place from 17-20 May.
Political movements
The Chairman of Assembly of the Congress of the Congress of World Azerbaijanis (CWA), Sabir Rustamkhanly , said that changing the date and place of the ninth Congress of the CWA does not present serious problems within the organization. A decision was made to postpone the congress scheduled to take place on 28 May in Turkey to 14-15 July in Kelin ( Germany ). Postponing the date of the congress which had been scheduled for the end of last year and thereafter, changing the date again caused dissatisfaction within CWA.
The Chairman of Assembly of the Congress of the Congress of World Azerbaijanis (CWA), Sabir Rustamkhanly , said that changing the date and place of the ninth Congress of the CWA does not present serious problems within the organization. A decision was made to postpone the congress scheduled to take place on 28 May in Turkey to 14-15 July in Kelin ( Germany ). Postponing the date of the congress which had been scheduled for the end of last year and thereafter, changing the date again caused dissatisfaction within CWA.
Rustamkhanly said that this time postponing the date will not present serious differences because currently Turkey is preparing for the presidential elections and the social-political situation in the country is tense. "The Apparat of the Chairman is engaged in this issue and if they decided so, I consider that no serious problems will come into existence. Conducting the Congress in a European country is very important," Rustamkhanly added.
According to him, the agenda of the meeting includes discussing the situation in South Azerbaijan, and making an appeal to international organizations with regards to human rights violations in South Azerbaijan. In addition, amendments will be made to the Regulation of CWA and Apparat of Chairman will be formed.
CWA was created in 1997 in the USA. The organization fights for the rights of Azerbaijanis residing in Iran and the independency of South Azerbaijan.
The Deputy Chairman of Azerbaijan Popular Front Party (APFP), Hasan Kerimov , stated on 14 May that the State Committee on Management of the State Property responded to the Party's appeal regarding the allocation of premises for the Party. According to Kerimov , the response stated that the State Committee had considered the Party's request.
.
According to him, the State Committee on Management of the State Property, had once again offered a site measuring 460 m2 on the second floor of a three-storied building located in 4, Mektebli Street, Keshla settlement, Nizami district, Baku city.
According to him, the State Committee on Management of the State Property, had once again offered a site measuring 460 m2 on the second floor of a three-storied building located in 4, Mektebli Street, Keshla settlement, Nizami district, Baku city.
Kerimov responded that the Party did not intend to operate on those premises and repeatedly informed the State Committee of this. He said that the party would discuss the response and make a decision.
In November 2006 the party was removed from office in 33, Khagani street and temporarily placed in the headquarters of the Azerbaijan Democratic Party.
Araz Alizade , the Co-Chairman of the Azerbaijan Social-Democratic Party (SDPA), stated that in spite of the existence of approximately 200 political parties, only 40 are registered and 8 or 9 may be considered as normal political organizations.
The New Azerbaijan Party is the largest party. The Azerbaijan United Party (UPA), the Azerbaijan Social Democratic Party (SDPA), the Musavat , the Azerbaijan Popular Front Party (PFPA), the Azerbaijan Democratic Party (DPA), the Azerbaijan National Independence Party (ANIP), the Azerbaijan Liberal Party (ALP) and the Azerbaijan Citizens and Development Party (CDPA) are considered as political organizations. The Azerbaijan Civilian Solidarity Party and Adalat Party have the members but no structure.
According to Alizade , the parties which have only one chairman cannot be considered a political organization. The ASDP had 8,000 people before Ayaz Mutallibov joined the party as Co-Chairman. Subsequently, the number of party members increased to 26,000.
Although Alizade recognizes the social base and existence of these parties, he does not approve of their political course and activities. "If these parties come to power nothing will change." stressed Alizade .
The Chairman of the Musavat Party, Isa Gambar , said on 15 May in Baku that his party does not hold talks to create a faction or union.
Commenting on the information that the Musavat Party is holding negotiations with the Chairman of the Azerbaijan Democratic Party, Sardar Jalaloglu , Open Society Party, Rasul Guliyev , President of Public Forum 'For Azerbaijan', Eldar Namazov and prosecuted ex-Health Minister, Ali Insanov , so as to create a faction to jointly participate in 2008 presidential elections, Gambar replied that the meetings amongst politicians and public figures has always been an ongoing one.
"We retain ties and hold talks with several of the mentioned persons. However, at present we are not holding any official talks or trying to establish a faction. Musavat does not have such an intention. This is because I do not consider it necessary to make such a hasty decision," he said. The Head of Musavat felt that the main point is to ensure a free and fair election. "If normal elections are organized in Azerbaijan, the number of candidates will not prevent the election process," Isa Gambar stated.
Touching upon the difference between Musavat and other parties represented in the Azadlyg faction with regards to the formation of the election commissions, Gambar said that over the last 10 years, they have been demonstrating their position to form the election commissions from democratic forces of Azerbaijan.
"The election commissions should be formed on an equal basis from both the members of the government and from the opposition," Gambar said.
Ali Ahmadov , the Deputy Chairman and Executive Secretary of the Governing New Azerbaijan Party (NAP), said on 16 May that information regarding oil contracts had been misrepresented in the article by Las Abrahams, former BP employee, published in several opposition newspapers. The article reported on the process of oil contract signings in the beginning of the 1990s. Ahmadov said that the article was used as a new trump card by several opposition newspapers intending to attack the Azerbaijani Government.
"The original article and the one published in newspapers greatly differ. The main purpose of the misrepresentation was to draw a correlation between the chaos and corruption that ensued from the Azerbaijan Popular Front Party ruling in 1992-1993 with the current government," Ahmadov added.
The official voiced his concerns regarding that if oil contracts had been made in backroom deals, as Mr. Abrahams said in his article, the ground for it had been prepared by the Popular Front's administration, as the article said that the first agreement was signed in 1992.
"The article reported on imposed curfews, how armed people took to the streets, and other events referring to 1992-93. Although bribery was not mentioned in the article, the opposition newspapers added the fact of bribery by officials. Thus the opposition launches a new slander campaign. Calumny and lies are peculiar to the Azerbaijani opposition. They try to pin their own criminal actions which they committed on the authorities that came to power due to the people's request," Ahmadov stressed.
"The article reported on imposed curfews, how armed people took to the streets, and other events referring to 1992-93. Although bribery was not mentioned in the article, the opposition newspapers added the fact of bribery by officials. Thus the opposition launches a new slander campaign. Calumny and lies are peculiar to the Azerbaijani opposition. They try to pin their own criminal actions which they committed on the authorities that came to power due to the people's request," Ahmadov stressed.
Ahmadov suggested that the Media Council should express its official opinion on the occasion and to prevent publication of newspapers tainting the honour and decency of individuals," he urged.
Ali Aliyev , Co-Founder of the Azadlig block and Chairmen of the Citizens and Development Party of Azerbaijan, reported on 16 May that the Oppositional Political Party Azadlig approved the Open Society Party's proposal to hold its forum.
The Open Society Party intends to hold forum on 25 May with the participation of all political parties.
The Co-Chairmen of Azadlig agreed to attend the forum.
The Co-Chairmen of Azadlig agreed to attend the forum.
Aliyev stressed that the Azadlig block has not yet received its proposal for joining the Open Society Party. Meanwhile, the former members of the Azerbaijan Democratic Party (ADP) are the allies of the block.
"We will consider the political course approved by the ADP after the forum. If they adhere to an oppositional position then we will not co-operate with the Party. If Sardar Jalalogli supports the political course of the Power we will consider it as unacceptable for us," Aliyev added.
"We will consider the political course approved by the ADP after the forum. If they adhere to an oppositional position then we will not co-operate with the Party. If Sardar Jalalogli supports the political course of the Power we will consider it as unacceptable for us," Aliyev added.
Azadlig includes three parties -the Popular Front of Azerbaijan (PFA), the Liberal Party of Azerbaijan (LPA), and the Citizens and Development Party of Azerbaijan (CDPA).
Ali Aliyev , the Co-founder of Azadlig Bloc and the Chairman of the Citizen and Development Party of Azerbaijan (CDP), stated that the draft law on the implementation of changes and supplements in the Electoral Code prepared by the political pro-oppositional Azadlig Bloc is being discussed by the representatives of international organizations.
According to Aliyev , the Council of Europe is interested in the document and requested the Bloc to render them a copy of the project.
The draft law was sent to the diplomatic representations acting in Azerbaijan for consideration.
The Bloc proposes to form an elections commission from the members of the parties that participated in the latest Parliamentary elections.
The Bloc proposes to form an elections commission from the members of the parties that participated in the latest Parliamentary elections.
Azadlig includes three oppositional parties - Azerbaijan Popular Front Party, (PFP), Liberal Party (LP) and Citizen and Development Party (CDP).
Ali Ahmadov , the Deputy Chairman of the ruling New Azerbaijan Party (NAP) and Executive Secretary of NAP, stated on 17 May that the hearings on the former member of the Political Presidum of NAP, Farhad Aliyev , would be fair. The court will corroborate all evidence put foward regarding the ex-Minister for Eonomic Minister.
"All will be done within the framework of the Azerbaijani legislation. It is not expedient to make any forecasts and the results of the process," he emphasized.
Ali Ahmadov , the Deputy Chairman and Executive Secretary of the Yeni Azerbaijan Party stated on 17 May that Ali Kerimli , the Chairman of the oppositional Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan (PFPA), spread rumors of his own arrest to increase his social importance.
"If Kerimli spreads such rumors it may mean that he has done something and wants to prevent more arrests," Ahmadov added.
The PFPA is the Co-Founder and member of the political bloc Azadlig . Abulfaz Elchibayov , the former President of Azerbaijan was the founder of Azadlig in 2000. Since 2000 Ali Kerimli has been leading the bloc
The Deputy Chairman of the governing New Azerbaijan Party (NAP), its Executive Secretary, Ali Ahmadov , reported on 18 May that the left-wingers of Azerbaijani could not draw the people to their demonstrations due to loss of prestige. According to Ahmadov , the worst mistake of the Azerbaijani opposition is its intentions to define the country's future in the streets.
"Demonstration is not the only form of political combat. In democratic societies a street is not the scene for political processes. It is politics that has to impact the people's thinking," Ahmadov said.
He noted that the parties that had chosen the lie, calumny, and moral terror, could not be supported by the people.
"Formerly they produced other proofs. They used to say that for the most part the opposition's supporters resided in the suburbs and did not have money for traffic and participation in the demonstrations held in the centre of the city. Now the demonstrations are allowed to be held in the suburbs. But where they are? Maybe the opposition's electorate resides in the outer space? Actually the opposition does not have any supporters at all," the MP stressed.
The Chairman of the opposition Great Establishment Party, Fazil Gazanfaroglu , said that the opposition parties of Azerbaijan need to establish talks.
According to him, there are serious differences within the opposition. "A situation has arisen in the opposition party in which everyone praises himself/herself and does not see past that. I think that the opposition will never come to a unified conclusion. There are many political forces and opinions. However, I believe that it needs to meet to discuss positions and hold talks," Gazanfaroglu said. In addition, he highlighted the necessity to establish discussions with the Government. "However, it needs to guarantee that the talks between the Government and the opposition will receive results; otherwise the meeting would be senseless." Gazanfaroglu said.
Great Establishment Party was created in 2003. Party's Chairman, Fazil Gazanfaroglu , is a member to the Parliament of Azerbaijan.
Great Establishment Party was created in 2003. Party's Chairman, Fazil Gazanfaroglu , is a member to the Parliament of Azerbaijan.
Hajiaga Nuri , the chairman of the Azerbaijani Islamic Party (AIP), stated that the AIP might join the Movement of Azerbaijan Intelligentsia (MAI).
Hajiaga Nuri , the chairman of the Azerbaijani Islamic Party (AIP), stated that the AIP might join the Movement of Azerbaijan Intelligentsia (MAI).
Nuri noted that he received the proposal on joining the MAI from Eldaniz Guliyev , the Manager of the organization. The AIP and the MAI have been allies for long years.
AIP intends to increase its activity in the Union of pro-Azerbaijani Forces and to corporate with other social and political organizations.
AIP will hold meeting to apply a corresponding decision to the forthcoming 2008 Presidential election in Azerbaijan.
The Union represents three opposition political parties - the Unity Party of Azerbaijan (YPA), the People's Survival Party of Azerbaijan (PSP) and the AIP.
The oppositional IPA was formed in 1991, and in 1992 was registered in the Ministry of Justice of Azerbaijan.
After adopting the law on the political parties the AIP was not registered.
NAGORNO-KARABAKH NAGORNO-KARABAKH
The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry has announced that a division of the Armenian Armed Forces, located 1.4 km north-east of the occupied Masasgoh Village of Barda District of Azerbaijan fired at the Azerbaijani National Army in Agdam village of Tovuz District of Azerbaijan on 17 May from 00:05 to 00:45 hours.
The Azerbaijani National Army retaliated. No injuries were reported.
A separate hall of the occupied Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan was once again presented at the Moscow tourism forum. A separate stand presented Nagorno-Karabakh as a geographic region in the 7th International Tourism Fair which was opened on 17 May in Moscow at the exhibition center, Trend Special Correspondent reports.
The conflict between the two countries of South Caucasus appeared in 1988 due to the territorial claims of Armenia against Azerbaijan. Armenia has occupied 20% of the Azerbaijani land including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. Since 1992 to the present time, these territories have been under the occupation of the Armenian Forces. In 1994, Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a cease-fire agreement at which time the active hostilities ended. The Co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group ( Russia , France and USA) are holding peaceful negotiations.
One week before the Moscow forum, the Heads of the Azerbaijani diaspora organizations (Federal National Cultural Autonomy of the Russian Azerbaijanis, International Karabakh Foundation and Co-ordination Council of Azerbaijani Youths) forwarded letters to the Tourism Committee of Moscow. A letter highlighted their powerlessness to represent Nagorno-Karabakh both as a Republic and as an independent region. The letters recalled negative results in the previous 6th Moscow exhibitions (13 May, 2006) where this occupied region of Azerbaijan was presented as self-declared " Nagorno -Karabakh Republic". During the exhibition, the activists of the Azerbaijani diaspora organizations attempted to prevent the Armenians from presenting the hall as so-called "NGR" and this led to controversy. The letter states that the decision on presenting the hall as of Nagorno-Karabakh may yield negative results and the Tourism Committee of Moscow will take responsibility for the negative results. The representative of the Tourism Committee stated by telephone that this time Nagorno-Karabakh will not be presented as a republic and the stand will not reflect any status. However, the Azerbaijani diaspora organization insisted on full liquidation of the Nagorno-Karabakh hall.
Nagorno-Karabakh was presented in the tourism fair not as a republic, but as a geographic region. However, the hall featured Azerbaijani items, household items, dresses, wine are represented by the Armenians. On 18-19 May, on par with the presentation of the official stand of Azerbaijan, it is planned to present a separate stand of Nagorno-Karabakh. The activists of the Azerbaijani Diaspora organizations have highlighted their intention to prevent it.
Criminal cases have been filed against more than 100 people who have committed crimes against the Azerbaijanis during the occupation of Lachin city of Azerbaijan and they are being tracked down with Interpol. The Prosecutor of Lachin , Mubariz Bayramov , said on 17 May that most of the offenders are persons of Armenian nationality.
According to Bayramov , the material damages inflicted on the region during the occupation exceeded $7bln. As a result of Armenian aggression, 264 people died, 64 were taken prisoners, and hundreds of people become disabled. The Azerbaijani city of Lachin was occupied by the Armed Forces of Armenia on 18 May 1992. Presently the residents of the district inhabit fifty-nine cities and districts of Azerbaijan. Before occupation, the population of Lachin was 258,229 people. Lachin city plus an additional 125 villages were also occupied by the Armenian Armed Forces. Lachin is located 500km west of Baku.
The presenting of the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan as a geographic region in the 7th International Tourism Fair which was opened on 17 May in Moscow was ceased, the General Manager of the Exhibition Complex " Gostiniy Dvor ", Olga Teplyakov , informed Trend Special Correspondent.
Together with the official stand of Azerbaijan, the occupied Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan was being presented in the exhibition as well. The Azerbaijani hall was presented on 18 May and the presentation representing Nagorno-Karabakh as a self-declared republic had initially been scheduled for 19 May.
Olga Teplyakov said that the decision on ceasing presenting on Nagorno-Karabakh was made due to the repeat appeals on the Azerbaijani side.
One week before the Moscow forum, the Heads of the Azerbaijani Diaspora organizations (Federal National Cultural Autonomy of the Russian Azerbaijanis, International Karabakh Foundation and Co-ordination Council of Azerbaijani Youths) forwarded a letter to the Tourism Committee of Moscow. A letter highlighted their powerlessness to represent Nagorno-Karabakh both as a Republic and as an independent region. The letter recalled negative results in the previous 6th Moscow exhibitions (13 May, 2006) where this occupied region of Azerbaijan was presented as self-declared " Nagorno -Karabakh Republic". During the exhibition, the activists of the Azerbaijani Diaspora organizations attempted to prevent the Armenians from presenting the hall as so-called "NGR" and this led to controversy. The letter states that the decision on presenting the hall as of Nagorno-Karabakh may yield negative results and that the Tourism Committee of Moscow would need to take responsibility for the negative results. The representative of the Tourism Committee stated by telephone that this time Nagorno-Karabakh will not be presented as a republic and the stand will not reflect any status. However, the Azerbaijani Diaspora organization insisted on full liquidation of the Nagorno-Karabakh hall. The conflict between the two countries of South Caucasus appeared in 1988 due to the territorial claims between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Armenia has occupied 20% of the Azerbaijani land including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. From 1992 until the present, these territories have been under the occupation of the Armenian Forces. In 1994, Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a cease-fire agreement at which time the active hostilities ended. The Co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group ( Russia , France and USA) are holding peaceful negotiations.
One week before the Moscow forum, the Heads of the Azerbaijani Diaspora organizations (Federal National Cultural Autonomy of the Russian Azerbaijanis, International Karabakh Foundation and Co-ordination Council of Azerbaijani Youths) forwarded a letter to the Tourism Committee of Moscow. A letter highlighted their powerlessness to represent Nagorno-Karabakh both as a Republic and as an independent region. The letter recalled negative results in the previous 6th Moscow exhibitions (13 May, 2006) where this occupied region of Azerbaijan was presented as self-declared " Nagorno -Karabakh Republic". During the exhibition, the activists of the Azerbaijani Diaspora organizations attempted to prevent the Armenians from presenting the hall as so-called "NGR" and this led to controversy. The letter states that the decision on presenting the hall as of Nagorno-Karabakh may yield negative results and that the Tourism Committee of Moscow would need to take responsibility for the negative results. The representative of the Tourism Committee stated by telephone that this time Nagorno-Karabakh will not be presented as a republic and the stand will not reflect any status. However, the Azerbaijani Diaspora organization insisted on full liquidation of the Nagorno-Karabakh hall. The conflict between the two countries of South Caucasus appeared in 1988 due to the territorial claims between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Armenia has occupied 20% of the Azerbaijani land including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. From 1992 until the present, these territories have been under the occupation of the Armenian Forces. In 1994, Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a cease-fire agreement at which time the active hostilities ended. The Co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group ( Russia , France and USA) are holding peaceful negotiations.
Vasiliy Istratov , the Russian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, has predicted that the peace talks on the resolution of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh will intensify.
Vasiliy Istratov , the Russian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, has predicted that the peace talks on the resolution of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh will intensify.
Istratov said in talks with journalists that negotiations will most likely intensify following the completion of the elections in Armenia. He stated that making any form of prediction is very difficult in politics, as the results will not only depend on Russia's will, but on a number of reasons.
Up to the 12 May parliamentary elections in Armenia, the polls were expected to impede the peace talks on the resolution of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict. 'The elections have been held and the results have been announced. Now we will see whether the elections have impeded the talks," the diplomat stressed.
The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries broke out in 1988 due to Armenia's territorial claims at Azerbaijan.
The divisions of the Armenian armed forces broke the ceasefire regime on 18 May.
The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry announced on 18 May the Armenian Armed Forces located in the southeast of the occupied Talysh village of Terter District of Azerbaijan, fired the Azerbaijani positions in the opposite from 23:10 to 23:45.
The Armenian armed forces have anew set up military exercises in the occupied territory of the Agdam District of Azerbaijan. Along with heavy technique, the aviation has also been attracted to exercises. The helicopters mainly fly over the occupied village of Sarijali and Uzundere of Agdam .
The Armenian armed forces have anew set up military exercises in the occupied territory of the Agdam District of Azerbaijan. Along with heavy technique, the aviation has also been attracted to exercises. The helicopters mainly fly over the occupied village of Sarijali and Uzundere of Agdam .
Eldar Sabiroglu , the Spokesman for the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry, confirmed on 19 May the conduct of military exercises by the Armenians in the occupied territory of Azerbaijan and it is not the first case.
He urged the importance of attentive approach by the international organizations towards the issue and implementation of measures for prevention of such Actions by Armenia. Sabiroglu stated that the Azerbaijani DEfee Ministry takes necessary measures and the Azerbaijani Armed Forces are in condition to prevent any danger by enemy.