Official chronicle
On Oct. 5, Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev received a delegation headed by Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) of Pakistan, General Tariq Majid.
Firstly arriving in Azerbaijan, the Pakistani General said that he felt here brotherly feelings and noted hospitality and beauty of the country.
President of Azerbaijan highlighted the successful development of bilateral relations and noted that the two countries are close allies. Noting that Pakistan is a brotherly country for Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev expressed hope for further expansion of relations, including in the military sphere. Azerbaijani President expressed confidence in further strengthening of relations after the visit of Pakistani General.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev received the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairmen Robert Bratko (USA), Bernard Fassier (France), Yuri Merzlyakov (Russia) and the Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Andzey Kasprzyk.
During the meeting, views were exchanged on the current situation in the negotiations to settle the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, as well as their prospects.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev received Chairman of the Constitutional Court of Slovakia Ivetta Macejkova.
The president mentioned the importance of developing the Azerbaijan-Slovakia relations in all directions. Noting not very intense nature of today's Azerbaijan- Slovakia relations, Aliyev expressed confidence that Macejkova's current visit will be effective and serve the development of cooperation.
The chairman mentioned the successful cooperation between constitutional courts of the two countries at the international level, saying that these two organizations regularly exchange experiences.
Azerbaijani President, Ilham Aliyev congratulated his Croatian counterpart Stjepan Mesic on the national holiday - Independence Day.
The Azerbaijani President expressed hope that the friendly relations and partnership between the two countries will continue to evolve and expand in accordance with the interests of the Azerbaijani and Croatian peoples.
"On this significant day, I wish you and the Croatian people prosperity," Aliyev said.
On October 7, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev made a telephone call to Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.
The Azeri leader congratulated Vladimir Putin on his birthday, wishing him good health and success in his activities.
The Russian Premier thanked President Ilham Aliyev for his attention and congratulation.
On Oct. 7, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed a decree appointing Adishirin Gasimov the director of the Financial Monitoring Service of the Central Bank of the Azerbaijan Republic.
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev inspected complete overhaul in capital's garden near the State Philharmonic Hall.
The Head of State and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva toured the garden. They were in detail informed about the history of the garden with 4, 6 hectares area.
In May 2007, President Ilham Aliyev instructed to reconstruct this garden. He regularly came to the park to familiarize himself with the works.
The garden got an original fountain projected by France-based "İnter Art" Company. The President and First Lady were told that along with the reconstruction work, excavation was conducted in the garden as a result of which the second fortress wall and door of Icharishahar (Inner City) was found.
Favorable conditions were created in the garden for the guests and residents to have rest. After familiarizing himself with the garden the Head of State met with representatives of the "İnter Art" Company and wished them successes.
Azerbaijani President, Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on additional measures to accelerate socio-economic development of the Tovuz region.
The decree stipulates allocation of 5 million manat from the President Fund, provided by the 2009 public budget to the Executive Power of the Tovuz region to reconstruct the strategically important road Tovuz-Boyuk Gishlag-Garalar, which connect 19 mountain villages border with Armenia.
The Finance Ministry is tasked to fund in the prescribed manner.
The decree also noted the work on socio-economic development of the area, the creation of roads and other infrastructure conducted during the last years.
On Oct. 8, Azerbaijani President, Ilham Aliyev left for Chisinau to attend the meeting of the Council of the CIS countries' heads.
The Azerbaijani leader was seen off at the Heydar Aliyev International Airport by Prime Minister Artur Rasizade, Head-off-staff of the Azerbaijani Presidential Administration, Ramiz Mehdiyev and Head of the Baku City Administration, Hajibala Abutalibov.
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev today has arrived in Chisinau, Moldova.
A ceremonial guard of honor was lined up at the Chisinau airport in honor of the Azerbaijani leader.
The President was welcomed by top officials of Moldova and CIS Executive Committee.
The meeting of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan was held in Kishinev.
The meeting of CIS countries' heads was held in Kishinev on October 9.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev participated in the meeting. Participants of the meeting were photographed. Closed and open meetings of CIS countries' heads were held.
October 9 Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev ended his visit to Moldova, where he attended the meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of State.
The same day, President Ilham Aliyev returned to Baku.
At the Heydar Aliyev International Airport, the President was welcomed by Premier Artur Rasizade, Head of the Presidential Administration Ramiz Mehdiyev and Baku Mayor Hajibala Abutalibov.
A meeting between Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev and Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko took place here October 9, State News Agency AzerTAc reported.
The presidents exchanged views on various fields of bilateral relations.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, participating in Summit of CIS Council of the heads of states in Chisinau spoke with the Azerbaijan TV in an exclusive interview. AzerTaj presents the text of interview.
Azerbaijan TV: President, your regular meeting with the president of Armenia took place. At the summit of heads of the Turkish-speaking states in Nakhchivan You have noticed, that now negotiations are at final stage. From this point of view, what you can tell about results of the today`s meeting?
Ilham Aliyev: As you know, the negotiations continue for long years. And, unfortunately, without any result. I noticed that negotiations are already at final stage on which certain decisions should be made. Our position remains unchanged. The Armenia-Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh conflict should be resolved within the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. The Armenian armed forces should be withdrawn from all our occupied lands. Our compatriots, who have become internally displaced people, should return to their native lands. Our position, at the same time, bases on the norms of international law. As you know the UN Security Council has accepted 4 resolutions on the question. There are decisions and resolutions of other international organizations as well. In short, from the point of view of international law our position is very strong.
As to negotiations, I can tell that there is positive dynamics. Otherwise, these negotiations would not continue till now. The main reason of our adherence to negotiations is that in negotiating process, though hardly, there is progress. For last 5-6 years, very important questions have been coordinated. First of all, the Armenian forces should be unconditionally withdrawn from all occupied territories around Nagorno Karabakh. I can tell that it is a big progress in the course of negotiations as 4-5 years ago it was a question of clearing of four, and then - five regions. However, as a result of the steps undertaken in negotiating process, today I already can tell that it was coordinated.
Peculiarity of negotiations is that as long as everything is not coordinated, it means nothing has been coordinated. It means that we have to solve all questions. Only in this case we can come nearer to the big peace agreement. Territorial integrity of Azerbaijan should be completely restored, and Armenians who live in Nagorno Karabakh, and Azerbaijanis who will return to Nagorno Karabakh, in the future should live in the conditions of a high autonomy. It is the approach which includes the most positive world experience. It is very democratic approach, and the question can be solved only in this way.
In the world and region, there was very big interest to the Chisinau talks, as it is already clear for all that negotiations are at final stage, and especially if Armenians take a constructive position it can lead to positive result in negotiations. I reiterate our position remains invariable. We in all processes defended this position. But, unfortunately, the Chisinau meeting has appeared ineffectual. Yes, I should notice again, that on certain questions there is defined, but not such a big progress. But, unfortunately, the parties could not come to the consent on the major discussed questions. The reason of it, once again I would tell, is the non-constructive position of Armenia. In negotiations we base on principles of international law and we carry on negotiations constructively. We try to understand concern of the opposite side. We understand, that the population living today in Nagorno Karabakh, should receive safety guarantees. At the same time, the Azerbaijani population who after end of occupation will return to their homes, too, should receive safety guarantees. Azerbaijanis, who will return to Nagorno Karabakh, Shusha, should receive safety guarantees. That is, this process should go in parallel, safety of all people living in region, is equally important. In that case, once again I reiterate our position, our approach demonstrated at negotiations, base on international law. I hope, that the Armenian side, at last, will show constructiveness, will make very important steps and withdraw its armies from the occupied lands, and, thus, in region the peace will be provided, all communications will be open and begin cooperation in a broad sense.
Until the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is not settled, any positive tendencies in region are not expected. If someone believes, that it is possible to solve easily some of problems existing in region, I concern it with doubt. As the main problem, the basic question of region is the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. First of all, this conflict should be settled. And then, all other questions can be solved.
Q: Mr. President, on October 10 takes place the signing of protocols providing settlement of relations between Turkey and Armenia. As known, these protocols don't include the Nagorno Karabakh question. What is the position of Azerbaijan in this connection?
A: Azerbaijan repeatedly stated its position. Azerbaijan has stated its position in April when this question has been included in the agenda. In my statements I also mentioned this problem. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs made official statement. Our position is that we do not interfere with the relations which develop or can develop between other countries. We consider it inadmissible. In the same way, we do not want and we do not allow that someone interfered with our internal affairs. Azerbaijan interfered neither with internal affairs of other countries, nor in relations between the countries. It is the first question.
For nobody is a secret, that occupation of Kalbajar region became the main and only reason of closing of the Turkish-Armenian border. That is, for this reason the Turkish-Armenian border has been closed and remains in such condition till today. Naturally, after elimination of this reason the border can be opened. This is our position. At the same time, heads of Turkey also repeatedly stated their position on the mentioned question. I hope that this position will prevail, and in protocols and their practical realization, the said factor will be considered.
You have noted and as provided, these protocols don't provide the settlement of Nagorno Karabakh question. But, at the same time, heads of Turkey in official statements and during personal meetings repeatedly said to us, that until the Nagorno Karabakh question is not resolved, the Turkish-Armenian protocols will not be ratified by parliament and, thus, borders will not open. It was stated by the President, the Prime Minister, the chairman of parliament, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey, and we trust in it. We believe that so it will be. In this case, the peace can come to region. In this case, all countries of region can successfully take advantage of the said situation and solve all problems among themselves. Only in this case, large-scale cooperation can be established in region.
At times, there are opinions that normalization of the Turkish-Armenian relations, opening of borders in the future can promote settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. I do not share these opinions as I consider that if the Turkish-Armenian relations are normalized before settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh problem, then the position of Armenia in negotiating process can become tougher. Armenia will try to present it as the political and diplomatic success and, most likely, will take at negotiations even more rigid and unacceptable position. There are enough bases to speak so. Process of negotiations and the events occurring at its various stages give the bases to speak so.
I am absolutely convinced that these two processes - settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict and opening of the Turkish-Armenian border - should go in parallel. Between these processes, there is, let be not official, but informal, connection. This connection should be kept, and two questions should be solved in parallel and simultaneously. Otherwise, the status quo in region can change in a negative side. Status quo change is very important. Our lands throughout many years are under occupation. Till what time we will suffer it?! But if the status quo changes in a negative side, it can lead to the beginning of negative processes in region. We still hope that we can solve the Nagorno Karabakh problem by negotiations. If these hopes were exhausted, we would not participate in negotiations. However, processes occurring in region and inclusion of the big states in this question simultaneously should impact positively also on settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. I believe that so it will be.
Friendship and brotherhood relations between Turkey and Azerbaijan are at very high level, and I once again would tell, that I trust in the promise. I trust in statements of the heads of Turkey and am convinced that until the Nagorno Karabakh question will not be resolved, the Turkish-Armenian border will not open.
Q: Mr. President, making recently a trip on foreign countries, the president of Armenia has undergone to insults and pressure from the Armenian Diaspora. How do you think, what is the reason of it?
A: You know, once again I would notice, that we live in this region, and well know all its problems. We know both its history, and today`s realities, and, certainly, to predict and propose something easier for us, than to the politicians or the statesmen who are not living in region. As you have told, during his foreign trip, the president of Armenia has faced big pressure. To tell the truth, we do not understand the purpose of this trip fully, because, as you know, day of signing of protocols between Turkey and Armenia has been appointed for a long time, and this date has been coordinated by Turkey and Armenia. In that case, the meeting with representatives of Diaspora on the threshold of it, was, in my opinion, of formal character, as already is known date, the text of protocols and there is no any possibility to change them. It simply had formal character. But in fact, it is an indicator. Look, in what this process of normalization leads.
Armenia, possibly, undergoes political crisis. The coalition in Armenia falls apart, and connections of Armenia with Diaspora were undermined. For the first time, compatriots abroad meet the president of Armenia so. At the same time, this normalization, certainly, is ambiguously perceived also in the Azerbaijan society. Also it is the truth. The Azerbaijan society, its most part holds the opinion, that the Turkish-Armenian border should be opened simultaneously with the settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh problem. In Turkey this question also has caused wide discussions which at times pass very tensely. That is, for the present, there is nothing concrete. But look, what negative consequences are already observed. In Armenia, they sharply protest against this question. We know also public opinion in Azerbaijan. In Turkey, this question is perceived ambiguously. But for the present, there is nothing concrete. There is no certainty also in the question of ratification by parliament of protocols to be signed. Therefore, each step to region should be thought over, the detailed analysis should be carried out, forecasts to be made. Forecasts should be made on the basis of realities. We should make so that regional problems were solved. But at times, we see that problems existing in region even more are aggravated. However, there is one more moment which consists in the following: articles about the normalization of the Turkish-Armenian relations for the first time, published in the Armenian press still in February, pursued one aim - to harm the Turkish-Azerbaijan relations. But today continuation of the Turkish-Armenian process leads to very serious consequences already in the Armenia. As I have told, the internal situation has become aggravated, and relations of Armenia with Diaspora have deteriorated.
Q: Mr. President, it is known, that Armenia has appeared in isolation because of its aggressive policy. If the Armenian-Turkish border is opened, how you think, whether it will lead to economic revival in Armenia?
A: As you know, the economy of Armenia even before crisis was in difficult situation. Economic prospects are not so joyful there. As because of limitation of the market, insufficient development of local manufacture, and from the point of view of investments, Armenia is not an attractive country. The geographical position, in particular, the closed borders with Azerbaijan and Turkey, certainly, have caused very big economic difficulties. And in crisis situation it is seen more convex. According to the official statistics, this year the economy of Armenia has reduced approximately to 20 percent. Therefore, to revitalize the economy which is not in the best situation, will be very difficult.
Opening of the Turkish-Armenian border has more likely moral character. At the same time, it, in certain degree, can lead to economy revival. But I would tell so: it is something like an oxygen mask. The oxygen mask can help, it is possible to breathe through oxygen mask, but it is impossible to live normally.
Q: Mr. President, this question though not on the theme, but arouses great interest. It is connected with cooperation between Turkey and Azerbaijan in gas sphere. As you know, the Prime Minister of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan, being in May on a visit in Baku, has declared, that the prices existing today for gas are unfair. What was made that these prices became fair?
A: Yes, you are right. Esteemed Mr. Prime Minister, being in Baku, told this. He has told that the prices are unfair, and we aspire to bring them to normal level. Our wishes and position taken at negotiations are based on the international practice. As purchase and sale questions between other countries in region or in the world are solved, in the same way they should be solved also between us. Unfortunately, there is no result. At negotiations on purchase and sale and gas transit there are three basic questions. The first is the price which should be fair. We expect that the arrangement on the fair price will be reached in the near future. The second question is quantity of gas which in the future will be delivered to Turkey. As you know, this year to Turkey we have exported approximately 7 billion cubic meters of the Azerbaijani gas. Still under the unfair price.
What part of gas which will be extracted on the second phase of the project "Shahdeniz", and also gas which is extracted or will be extracted by the State Oil Company from other deposits, will be delivered on the Turkish market? We should define it, too. For us, as well as for any other country, it is very important the diversification of our export. We have managed to achieve it in oil sphere. Therefore, our oil is delivered on the world and European markets via various routes. In gas sphere, we also should use all gas pipelines available. Certainly, the Turkish market for us is very interesting.
As you know, Russia and Azerbaijan are starting cooperation in gas sphere, and I am convinced that in the future it can become very successful. Negotiations on the basis of the offers made by Iran are underway. The Iranian market also is very interesting to us. Efforts are made both from Azerbaijan, and the European countries for deliveries of the Azerbaijani gas to the market of the European Union through territory of Turkey. Very serious negotiations with EU member countries in a bilateral format are carried on. Negotiations with Greece, Italy, Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary and other countries are underway. That is, Azerbaijan has sufficient stocks of gas. This is our huge riches. The confirmed stocks of gas are at level, at least, 2 billion cubic meters. But the real quantity, at least, twice is more.
We should export this gas. Export of gas need huge investments. The volume of investments on the second phase of the Shahdeniz project is envisioned at level almost 20 billion dollars. Before to investments, we and our partners, members of consortium should know where we will sell this gas. What will be the tariff regulations, and what will be the price, in what quantity we will sell gas.
The third question - that is, the first question is the price, the second is quantity, and the third is tariff rates. Tariff rates, as well as the price, should be fair, and they should be coordinated with all other tariff rates existing in region. Here, on these three questions, unfortunately, we for the present have not reached any result at negotiations with the Turkish side. I once again would tell that we carry on goodwill negotiations. But, at the same time, questions discussed at negotiations should be solved according to the international practice. In this case, the Azerbaijani gas will be exported to Turkey in even great volumes.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev sent a congratulation letter to the Head of the International Olympic Committee, Jacques Rogge, on his re-election.
"Your re-election to this responsible post is the highest estimation given to You for Your prestige amongst the international sports community and for Your contribution to the development of the Olympic movement. I wish you health, happiness and success in pursuit of Olympic ideals," said the congratulatory letter by President Ilham Aliyev.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev congratulated his U.S. counterpart Barack Obama on winning the Nobel Peace Prize.
"This highest award is honored evaluation of your efforts to ensure peace, calmness and stability, conflict solution through dialogue and reconciliation. The positive changes worldwide, the appearance of a new climate in the international politics are linked to your name. On this day, Mr. President, I wish you good health, happiness and success in your future activities for the welfare of the fraternal American people," said the congratulatory letter by President Ilham Aliyev.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev has sent a letter of congratulation to the King of Spain Juan Carlos I on his country's National Day.
"Relations between Azerbaijan and Spain are successfully developing. Sure, we will continue joint efforts to further strengthen our friendly relations and cooperation. I wish You robust health and successes in your activities, and the friendly people of Spain - peace and welfare," the letter says
Professor Aida Imanguliyeva is the first woman Orientalist, whose scientific works are today on the focus of attention of scientist-orientalists all over the world, Rector of the Baku branch of Moscow State University named after Lomonosov, Nargiz Pashayeva, said on Oct. 10, making a speech at the International Symposium Ibn Arabi "East and West: Common Spiritual Values, Scientific-Cultural Relations", dedicated to the 70th anniversary of outstanding scientist, a Professor Aida Imanguliyeva.
Aida Imanguliyeva's name takes a worthy place amongst outstanding Azerbaijani scientists, said Nargiz Pashayeva.
Aida Imanguliyeva, who became the first Azerbaijani orientalist on Arabic literature of the new period and the first Azerbaijani Doctor of Science in Arabic, opened a new paper in the study of modern Arabic literature, laid the foundation of a new school," said Nargiz Pashayeva.
Professor Aida Imanguliyeva has left a rich scientific heritage, she said. Her fundamental researches enriched the Azerbaijani and world Orientalism.
Nargiz Pashayeva also described her as a daughter. Aida Imanguliyeva was a wonderful woman loving mother, reliable friend, a noble woman. She was the personification of wise Azeri and East women," she said.
Aida Imanguliyeva was able to speak in the languages of the eastern and western nations, embodying the spirit of the East and the intellect of the West," said Nargiz Pashayeva.
Aida Imanguliyeva united in herself the spiritual values of the West and East, the President of the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan Mahmud Kerimov said at the symposium. He appreciated the work by Aida Imanguliyeva, who opened a new paper in the study of modern Arabic literature.
According to Mahmud Kerimov, the researches and translations by Aida Imanguliyeva are the property of the Azerbaijani literature. During her activities as the Director of the Institute of Oriental Studies of the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan, she has done much to improve this branch of science," he said.
International symposium dedicated to the 70th anniversary of Professor Aida Imanguliyeva was organized by the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan and Ibn Arabi Society at the Oxford University (UK).
During the symposium, which will last from 9 to 11 October, reports will be delivered on the interaction and links between the eastern and western cultures in the works by the outstanding scientist-orientalist Aida Imanguliyeva, on common spiritual values, the factors forming the cultural foundations of a new stage of civilization development, the relationship between art, philosophical works by Ibn Arabi and Azerbaijani classical literature. In addition, the symposium will focus on the problems in this regard, concerns the modern world science.
The symposium is attended by famous scientists from George Washington University and Boston University (USA), the Institute of World Literature named after Maxim Gorky of Academy of Sciences of Russia, St. Petersburg Institute of Oriental Manuscripts, as well as from France, Spain, Egypt and other countries.
Elections
Webcams will be used in the municipal elections in Azerbaijan, the Chairman of the Central Election Commission (CEC), Mazahir Panahov told journalists on Oct. 7.
Azerbaijan will hold the municipal elections on Dec. 23. The elections will cover 1,718 municipalities.
All favorable conditions will be created for all monitors from both local and from international organizations during the elections, said Panahov.
Members of the Azerbaijani opposition parties will nominate their candidates for municipal elections individually.
"Our party has not passed state registration at the Justice Ministry. In this regard, political council's today's [Oct.9.] meeting will decide on the nomination of party members individually," chairman of the Aydinlar Party told Trend on Oct.9.
According to Alibayli, currently the party has 30 regional organizations and each of them will be given instructions on participation in the municipal elections individually. "We will complete the establishment of local offices in several areas during the election campaign," Alibayli added.
Regarding the delay of the party's registration, Alibayli said that they repeatedly appealed to the Justice Ministry, but in vain. "They always say that they are checking our papers. It is not known when this process will be completed," the chairman said.
Parliament
На The Azerbaijani media will be given the opportunity to obtain operational information on the court's activities.
The meeting of the Azerbaijani parliamentary committee on legislative and legal policy, held on Oct. 5, recommended the bill "On receipt of information regarding the courts" to be discussed in the Parliament.
The bill, consisting of five chapters and 25 articles, determines the principles of obtaining information about the court's activities. The document also reflects restrictions on the provision of information considered as a state secret. Information relating to the court's activities can be obtained in writing, orally, by telephone, and may also be available on the Internet.
Some judges have refrained from providing information media, committee chairman Ali Huseynov said. They consider requests towards the courts, as interference in the judiciary.
There is different approach to solving this problem in the civilized countries, Huseynov added.
"There are projects on the TV channels abroad to view the court's activities. One of the Azerbaijani TV channels also has such project. However, a person acting in this project as a judge at the time was discharged for violating ethics rules and judicial morality. I am very sorry that this man promotes public rules of judicial ethics and morality," Huseynov said.
The problem will be removed with the adoption of this, committee member, Gudrat Hasanguliyev, added.
According Hasanguliyev, contrary to the Constitution, the Chairman of the Judicial Legal Council is the head of the executive agency - Justice Minister. "Under the principle of separation of powers, the judiciary is an independent wing of power," the MP said.
The judicial system should be reformed and revised procedures for appointing members of the Judicial-Legal Council, Hasanguliyev said.
Hasanguliyev said that his party has prepared and submitted to the parliament new project on amendments and additions to the Constitution, which reflected these issues.
The Azerbaijani Parliamentary Legislation and Legal Policy Committee recommended considering the amendments and changes to the law on "Prosecutor's Office".
On Oct. 5, at the meeting, the committee discussed a bill on amendments and changes to the law on "Prosecutor's Office" upon President Ilham Aliyev's legislative initiative.
The bill includes an item removing limitation on appointment of the prosecutor general, military prosecutor, prosecutor and military prosecutor of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic (NAR), which was described in the Article 16 of the law on the "Prosector's Office".
At present, under the current law, the same person cannot be appointed Prosecutor General of Azerbaijan Republic, Military Prosecutor of Azerbaijan Republic, and Prosecutor of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic more than twice.
The new bill applies this limitation to district and specialized prosecutors.
Azerbaijani MPs will take part in the autumn session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly.
Head of the Azerbaijani delegation in the Assembly, Deputy Chairman of Milli Majlis Bahar Muradova, Chairmen of the Parliamentary Committees on Agrarian Policy and Human Rights, Eldar Ibrahimov and Rabiyyat Aslanova, will represent Azerbaijan in the session to be held in Athens, the Milli Majlis's press-service told Trend .
" Regional cooperation and energy security "," Politics in climate and environment - move to Copenhagen, "," Optimal use to provide human security with natural reserves" will be heard at the OSCE PA meetings dedicated to "Energy security and Environment ". Discussions will be also held.
The prospects and calls regarding the OSCE's attitude to the Mediterranean region, as well as trade and economic cooperation in the region will be discussed at the meeting of the constant committee," the same source said.
Bahar Muradova and other members of the Azerbaijani delegation will make a speech at the meetings of the OSCE PA.
It is difficult to forbid smoking in public place, chairman of the committee of the Azerbaijani Parliament.
"Even if we approve the project in the Parliament envisaging this ban, it will be impossible to realize it," chairman of the committee on social policy of the Milli Majlis Hadi Rajabli told Trend on October 8.
The law restricting smoking in public place was approved in 40 U.S states, most of EU countries, Turkey and Baltic countries.
This law is planned to be approved in Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan.
Rajabli said that use of this law in Azerbaijan is rather hard and problematic.
'So, we have not included this issue in the agenda. We have projects envisaging ban for smoking in public places and conducting ceremonies. But it does not mean that we will discuss these projects at autumn session of Milli Majlis," chairman of the committee said.
He said that public condemnation of this fact is the best variant to prevent smoking in Azerbaijani public places.
"We would like this issue to be indicated in the project. As to a fine, it can be imposed towards 1 of 1,000 people violating rules. We do not think that mass fines will promote liquidation of smoking in public places," Rajabli said.
Regarding with suspension to discuss the bill 'Traditions' in the Parliament, Rajabli said that any bans are alien to our mentality.
"It is impossible to forbid loud music at weddings or refuse from splendid funeral repast.
We can achieve success by popularizing exemplary wedding traditions," chairman of the commission said.
Rajabli said that these projects are not expected to be discussed at autumn session as it is impossible to achieve success by approving these bills and charging officials agencies with their realization.
Foreign policy
Azerbaijani Minister of Defense Safar Abiyev and Pakistani Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Tariq Majid discussed prospects of Azerbaijani-Pakistani military-political cooperation in Baku on October 5.
The talks were held during Tariq Majid's visit to Baku, press-service of the Azerbaijani ministry of defense told Trend .
During the meeting the sides discussed situation in Caucasus and Middle East, as well as ways to solve Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Today Pakistani Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee visited memorial of Azerbaijani national leader Heydar Aliyev and the Martyrs' Alley
The delegations of Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan launched consultations on consular issues in Astana on Oct 5.
The heads of consular services of foreign ministers and representatives of several interested ministries and departments of the two countries are attending the two-day event, Kazakh official, Yerzhan Ashykbayev said at the briefing in Astana on Oct. 5.
The talks are focused on protecting the rights and interests of citizens of Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, expanding the agreement-legal base and the migration processes in the territories of both countries.
The Azerbaijani embassy to Ukraine sent diplomatic note to Ukraine concerning destruction of the monument to Azerbaijanis died while releasing Sevastopol from fascists, Azerbaijani ambassador to Ukraine Talat Aliyev said on October 7.
"Indignation concerning vandalism over the monument to Azerbaijanis died while releasing Sevastopol from fascists was expressed in the note. This monument was placed by Azerbaijani national leader Heydar Aliyev being deputy chairman of USSR council of ministers in 1974.
The monument was placed at Sapun Mountain. Ambassador said that several people destroyed memorial with intent to steal bronze monument on October 4 at night.
In its note, the embassy called for Ukrainian side to find plotters, punish them and construct operation to restore destroyed monument.
According to Sevastopol police's information, two plotters have been already detained. Search operations continue, ambassador said.
The Ukrainian authorities will restore the monument to Azerbaijanis desecrated by vandals in the Crimea.
"The Ukrainian people, representatives of official and public circles of the country were indignant at the unfair actions towards the monument built in Soviet times in honor of the 77th Azerbaijani Division, which fought heroically during the World War II at the Crimean land, on the Sapun mountain in the Sevastopol city," the Ukrainian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Boris Klimchuk, said when commenting on the destruction of the monument to Azerbaijanis died while releasing Sevastopol from fascists.
On Oct.7, several attackers destroyed a monument made of bronze with a view to kidnapping.
The Azerbaijani Embassy in Ukraine has sent diplomatic note to Ukraine concerning destruction of the monument to Azerbaijanis died while releasing Sevastopol from fascists. In its note, the embassy urged the Ukrainian side to find plotters, punish them restore the destroyed monument.
The competent Ukrainian authorities have identified and arrested those involved in this action as a result of operational activities.
The Sevastopol City Authorities decided on a complete reconstruction of the memorial complex, which will cost around $20,000-25,000. The Ukrainian Ambassador to Azerbaijan decided to allocate 10,000 hryvnia from the Native Volhynia Foundation which was founded by him, to the Sevastopol City authorities to reconstruct the memorial complex to Azerbaijani soldiers.
"We have lost 8 million people in the World War II and we know the cost of war," Klimchuk said.
Ukraine considers as its moral duty to establish justice in this matter in a short period of time, the ambassador added.
Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran Mamedbagir Bahrami was invited to the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan and received by the Deputy Foreign Minister Vagif Sadigov on Oct. 6, said the press release by the Foreign Ministry.
During the meeting the Iranian ambassador was told that on Oct. 4 on the websites of the Radio and Television Organization, which is an official structure of Iran and Seher TV belonging to this structure, was posted videos and articles regarding domestic and foreign policy of Azerbaijan.
Mamedbagir Bahrami was told that in these materials the state policy of the Azerbaijan Republic was purposefully distorted, the national flag of the Republic, which is the national symbol of the country, was grossly insulted. The materials also contain defamatory accusations against members of the Government and the Parliament of Azerbaijan and other government officials.
Vagif Sadigov stressed that the distribution of such materials by official media of Iran has become a cause for serious concern of the Azerbaijani side. Such materials were also placed in the official media outlets of Iran formerly, in connection with which the Azerbaijani side has repeatedly expressed its concern over this matter. Recently, the number of such insults and slanders has increased and exceeded all bounds.
The Deputy Minister stressed that such events can seriously damage the relations between the two countries, and expressed Azerbaijani side's strong protest against such unacceptable actions of official structures of Iran. Azerbaijan insists that the Iranian side must investigate the cause of what is happening and inform the Azerbaijani side of the results, and take steps to prevent their repetition in the future.
Later, Bahrami was handed an official note on this topic.
In his turn, the Iranian Ambassador said he would inform the Iranian side about the meeting and note.
Azerbaijani people and the government are sure of seriousness of the statements of the Turkish President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister and Speaker of the Parliament on impossibility to open the border with Armenia without settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Turkey Zakir Hashimov told Trend .
Hasimov made this statement at a meeting with Head of the Turkish Grand Unity Party Yalcın Topcu, in response to Topcu's statements on non-observance of Azerbaijani interests in the protocol of Armenia and Turkey.
"The cause of these statements [Yalcın Topcu] is that the protocol did not affect the Karabakh theme," Hashimov said over phone.
Earlier Turkish Prime Minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan told Trend in an exclusive interview that Turkey and Armenia will sign a deal to establish diplomatic ties on Oct. 10. The foreign ministers will come together on October 10, or October 11 and sign the drafted document. Foreign ministers Ahmet Davutoglu and Eduard Nalbandian will ink two protocols, the texts of which had been agreed earlier and internationally hailed as a major breakthrough.
"Our efforts are not against our brother Azerbaijan. We will not agree on anything what is against the interest of Azerbaijan. We can approach the agreement but it definitely depends on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement," Erdogan added.
The newly appointed Ambassador of Italy to Azerbaijan Mario Balde is satisfied with the relations between the two countries, he said this during a meeting with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov.
Expressing satisfaction with the high level relations between Azerbaijan and Italy, Balde said that during the period of its activity, he will make efforts to further strengthen relations between the two countries in all spheres.
Italian diplomat was satisfied with his appointment to Azerbaijan, the press service of Foreign Ministry told Trend on Oct. 7.
According to Baldo, during the period of his work at the Embassy of Italy in Russia, he closely followed the processes in the region.
Noting that he arrived in Baku recently, the Italian diplomat said that during this time he witnessed the development process in Azerbaijan. He also stressed that he was surprised with the diplomatic corps, which operates in the country, and described it as Azerbaijan's attention to the international community.
Elmar Mammadyarov noted the need for a more fruitful use of existing opportunities for the expansion of Azerbaijan-Italy relations.
At the meeting, views were exchanged on the prospects of development of bilateral relations, foreign policy priorities of Azerbaijan, regional issues, in particular the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Embassy of Germany in Azerbaijan today celebrated a national holiday - Day of German Unity - a traditional reception in one of the prestigious hotels in Baku.
"After 40 years we united and our nation has chosen the path of peace," said the Ambassador of Germany to Azerbaijan Per Stanchina, making a speech before the guests in the evening.
The diplomat expressed his satisfaction with the cooperation of Germany with Azerbaijan, noting that the mutual visits and negotiations create good opportunities for the development of bilateral relations.
According to the Ambassador, Germany is interested in further expansion of cooperation with Azerbaijan in all spheres. Azerbaijan and Germany have many common interests in different spheres - culture, economy, tourism, the Ambassador said.
First Vice-Speaker of the Parliament of Azerbaijan Ziyafet Askerov conveyed congratulations of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev to the people of Germany in connection with the national holiday. The parliamentarian said he was satisfied with the level of development of relations with Germany.
Armenia and Azerbaijan should endorse a document on basic principles to end stalemate on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict by the end of the year, or they will face an eventual return to full-scale hostilities, the International Crisis Group's next report said.
Given the current favorable situation in the region, the report's authors believe there is a reason for optimism in resolving the "political impasse". However, the report also warns that both governments and the international community must step up their efforts, as the status quo is increasingly untenable.
"Although a deliberate military offensive from either side is unlikely in the near future, the ceasefire that ended active hostilities fifteen years ago is increasingly fragile", said Lawrence Sheets, Crisis Group's Caucasus Project Director.
There has been a steady increase in the frequency and intensity of armed skirmishes that could unintentionally spark a wider conflict.
The dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh intensified following the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991. However, the two countries are now in substantial agreement on the framework of basic principles first outlined by the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group in 2005. This framework revolves around three fundamental principles: non-use of force, territorial integrity and self-determination.
As a first step to conflict resolution, Presidents Sarkisian of Armenia and Aliyev of Azerbaijan must prepare their publics for a possible peace deal. At present, there is a danger of a backlash, especially among Armenians, that could derail any basic principles agreement.
After this agreement is signed, Nagorno-Karabakh's de facto authorities and the Nagorno-Karabakh Azeri representatives should be part of subsequent peace talks. Crisis Group recommends the use of a multi-layered format, including direct contacts between Azerbaijan and Karabakh Armenians to help promote dialogue.
The international community, in particular the U.S., France and Russia as co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group, should intensify efforts to encourage Armenia and Azerbaijan to formally endorse the basic principles document and then open negotiations on a conclusive peace accord. The co-chairs should take advantage not only of their own productive collaboration, but also of current positive movement towards Armenia-Turkey rapprochement.
"There are encouraging signs the sides are inching towards agreement", explains Sabine Freizer, Crisis Group's Europe Program Director.
"But differences still remain between Armenia and Azerbaijan on the specifics of a final deal, most seriously over Nagorno-Karabakh's final status, and there is mutual distrust between the societies," Freizer added.
"Though a definitive settlement may still be years away, this window of opportunity to make genuine progress and support sustainable regional peace must not be missed," Freizer said.
Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said Turkey would not be involved in any project that would hurt rights of Azerbaijan during a news conference in Netherlands on Wednesday, Anadolu Agency reported.
Davutoglu said Dutch authorities and he held fruitful meetings and they took important steps to boost economic relations between the two countries.
Besides bilateral relations, Turkey's EU accession process, regional and international matters were discussed during his talks in Netherlands, Davutoglu said.
Rapprochement between Turkey and Armenia was supported by Dutch authorities, Davutoglu said. "We will not be involved in any project which might hurt Azerbaijan," he noted.
Foreign Minister Davutoglu is expected to leave Netherlands for Turkey this night.
The Turkish officials will take a wrong step, if they do not keep the promise made to Azerbaijan on the impossibility of opening the Turkish-Armenian border until the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, believes Suleyman Demirel, Turkish Ex-President, CNN Turk reported.
"In Turkey there are no people who do not want the resumption of the Turkish-Armenian relations. But we must recall the reasons for their breakup, and those reasons still are not resolved," said Demirel.
Agreement on the establishment of the diplomatic ties between Turkey and Armenia has been scheduled to be signed on Oct. 10, Turkish Prime Minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in an exclusive interview with Trend .
"The promise was made to the Azerbaijani people and officials. If we do not keep these promises, we can hurt them," the former president said.
Estonia held Days of Azerbaijan under the" Week of Nations at Estonian schools" in Old Tallinn City High School", the State Committee on Diaspora Organizations told Trend .
Director of the Azerbaijani school "Hafta sonu" in Estonia, Sarvinaz Karimova was the author and organizer of the idea. "Days of Azerbaijan" was held under the slogan "Azerbaijan - Land of Fires". "Days of Azerbaijan" received the highest recognition under the project. The stuff of the gymnasium and invited guests got familiarized with today's life in Azerbaijan during one day, the same source added.
Photo exhibition was devoted to the Azerbaijani national clothes, carpets, musical instruments and etc. Documentary film "Baku - old mystery of the fire", which was accompanied by subtitles in Estonian also was shown in the conference hall of gymnasium and in another room, the interested could get familiarized with the national dances of Azerbaijan, as well as learn the basic elements of our dances. The dancers performed fragments of the Azerbaijani national dances, the committee added.
Chairman of the Turkish opposition Grand Unity Party Yalcin Topcu has proposed to establish Caspian Union.
"It is high time to create the Caspian Union in the region," Topcu told Trend over phone from Ankara on Oct.8.
Topcu said that this task is not difficult. "If we look at history, we will see that the EU member states have fought with each other over the centuries. However, the countries of the Caspian Sea had never faced such problems" he said.
Azerbaijan and the Turkish-speaking countries of the Central Asia must be the core of the Caspian Union, Topcu added.
Russia and Armenia can also join the Caspian Union in the future. However, Armenia, first of all, must withdraw its troops from the occupied Azerbaijani lands and recognize the genocide committed by it in Khojali, Topcu said.
Azerbaijan advantageously differs from many countries by it tolerance, French ambassador to Azerbaijan Gabriel Keller said at a meeting in the Center for Strategic Studies under the Azerbaijani President on October 9.
He said that France plays great role to establish relations between EU and Azerbaijan. Ambassador said that Azerbaijan is very important partner for EU, especially in energy. Azerbaijan is also connecting link between Central Asia and EU, diplomat said.
"France enters co-chairmanship in OSCE Minsk Group. It is important for us to contribute in settlement of Azerbaijani-Armenian conflict and establish peace on South Caucasus," ambassador said.
The Chisinau meeting of the Azerbaijani and Armenian presidents held on Oct.9 and prospects of settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict were discussed at the Azerbaijani Media Center. The Azerbaijani politicians attended the discussions held by representative of the International Alert Avaz Hasanov.
"Unfortunately, the Chisinau meeting did not bring concrete results. No document was signed," politician Rasim Musabeyov said.
Azerbaijani and Armenian Presidents, Ilham Aliyev and Serzh Sargsyan met to discuss the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in Chisinau on Oct. 8. The leaders' meeting was held within participation in the summit of the CIS countries' heads.
Musabeyov said that an agreement on basic principles and both foreign ministers' statement on preparation of the framework agreement is the best possible result of the Chisinau meeting. "Unfortunately, it did not happen," Musabeyov said.
Sargsyan had to act cautiously in the negotiation process on the Nagorno-Karabakh due to signing of the protocols with Turkey to restore the diplomatic relations, the politicians said. Musabeyov said that the reason includes need for concessions towards both Turkey and the Nagorno-Karabakh, Musabeyov said.
Earlier Turkish Prime Minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan told Trend in an exclusive interview that Turkey and Armenia will sign a deal to establish diplomatic ties on Oct. 10.
On Aug. 31, Turkey and Armenia in the talks mediated by Switzerland reached an agreement to launch "internal political consultations" to sign the Protocol on Establishment of Diplomatic Relations and Protocol on Development of Bilateral Relations.
There are no diplomatic relations between Turkey and Armenia and the borders have been closed since 1993.
"It is rather difficult to retain status quo," Musabeyov added.
The Prague process, based on the Madrid principles, is nearing its completion. But the result is still unknown, Musabayev said.
Musabayev welcomes the rapprochement between Turkey and Armenia, believing that it will favorably influence the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
"Turkey meets the Armenians' issues, but calls the U.S. for certain concessions on the Nagorno-Karabakh", - he said.
Director of the Peace and Conflict Resolution Center, Elkhan Mehdiyev, is less optimistic.
"If the Turkish-Armenian rapprochement promotes solving the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, in reality, existence of the nominal Nagorno-Karabakh state within Azerbaijan will be the actual settlement," Mehdiyev added.
Chairman of the Association for the Protection of Women's Rights after D.Aliyeva, Novella Jafarova also supports Turkey's policy towards Armenia.
However, the main condition to solve the conflict is to refuse from deployment of the Russian peacekeepers in Azerbaijani released regions to avoid repetition of South Ossetia's scenario.
Taking into account security in the region, Azerbaijan first should solve Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, U.S first ambassador to Azerbaijan, Robert Finn, said.
"I think Azerbaijan is moving forward. In security I would definitely include solving the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh and ending the war, Finn told Trend .
He said that the big issue is to return one million refugees to their places.
Monitoring was held on the contact line between Armenian and Azerbaijani armed forces on Oct. 12 after a mandate by the special envoy of the OSCE chairman.
The monitoring near the Fuzuli-Horadiz road in Azerbaijan's Fuzuli region proceeded without incident on Oct. 12, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.
The monitoring will be held on the Azerbaijani side by OSCE Chairman-in-Office Personal Representative field assistants Pieter Ki and Irji Aberli.
The monitoring will be held on the opposite side, which the international community recognizes as Azerbaijani territory, by OSCE Chairman-in-Office Personal Representative Andrzej Kasprzyk's field assistants Imre Palatinus, Vladimir Chountulov and Jaslan Nurtazin.
Presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia asked OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs to include recommendations in the Madrid document, the U.S. co-chair Robert Bradtke told journalists Friday in Chisinau, after meeting of Presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia.
"The basic principles of the document are items of non-use of force, the right of self-determination and territorial integrity - said Bradtke, - Presidents agreed with that."
This was the seventh meeting of the Azerbaijani and Armenian Presidents, Ilham Aliyev and Serzh Sargsyan, held on peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict for 6 months.
According to Bradtke, Presidents seek ways of rapprochement.
"This is my first meeting with the presidents. They paid a very large attention to the problem discussed and listened to the opinion of each other" - said Bradtke.
Approving candidature of the MP from Turkey's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) Movlud Chavushoglu for the post of Chairman of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe was possible due to the member of Azerbaijani delegation to PACE Ganira Pashayeva.
MP from the Republican People's Party (RPP) Birgen Keles wanted to prevent Chavushoglu from becoming a candidate from the European Democratic Party (EDP), Turkish website Habervakti.com and newspaper Ahsham reported. Approved by 47 votes with 46 against, Movlud Chavushoglu was supported by Ganira Pashayeva.
Under the agreement between the political parties of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, the PACE President is replaced every two years, and in 2010 the Chairman of the organization should be the candidate of EDP. During Movlud Chavushoglu's nomination, protests were made in EDP, appeals were addressed to the PACE Bureau. If the appeal would be accepted, then Movlud Chavushoglu's election to the presidency would be postponed until 2011.
But with the support of Pashayeva, who returned from Frankfurt to Strasbourg to attend the voting, Movlud Chavushoglu gained 47 votes against 46. RPP MP Birgen Keles voted against Movlud Chavushoglu. Another RPP PM Tugrul Turkesh did not participate in voting.
The second meeting on political consultations between the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of South Korea took place in Seoul.
As part of political consultations, the head of the Azerbaijani delegation, Deputy Foreign Minister Khalaf Khalafov met with First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of South Korea Kwon Jong-rak and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Lee Eng Juneau, the press service of Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said on Oct. 10.
During political consultations, the sides discussed the issues of cooperation on political issues, mutual official visits at high level, exchanged views on bilateral and multilateral cooperation within international organizations.
At the same time, consultations covered the bilateral cooperation on economic issues, possible cooperation in energy, natural resources, information technology, construction, transport, tourism and agriculture.
The consultations also focused on prospects of cooperation between the two countries on science, education and culture.
Also, discussions were held on the situation in the regions, which Azerbaijan and South Korea are located.
Turkey will never put Azerbaijan into danger, Turkish Ambassador to U.S., Nabi Shensoy told Trend .
Speaking of the meeting determined the normalization between his country and Armenia in Zurich, the ambassador stressed that Ankara will try to term this plan not against Azerbaijan, but for its benefits.
Turkey and Armenia will sign a protocol on normalization of the relations in the Swiss city of Zurich on Oct. 10.
"We do understand sensitivity of Azerbaijan. But we promised Azerbaijan and we will never take a step against our closest ally," said the ambassador.
According to the Turkish diplomat, Ankara's aim is to brink peace to South Caucasus.
"The events of the recent years added new problems to the frozen conflicts in South Caucasus. Turkey wants to create stability in the region. One of our main interest is our brother Azerbaijan," the ambassador added.
The Turkish diplomat also pointed out that now the fact that both the Minsk Process and the Turkey-Armenia normalization are happening at the same time is very important.
"Even is this process are not connected, they complete each other. Both processes mast be solved soon and they will influence each other not negatively, but positive," said Shensoy.
Political movements
The editor-in-chief of opposition newspaper in Azerbaijan said that next crisis has arisen within the opposition.
"Unfortunately, the crisis became known on prior to the elections. If it would appear a little earlier, some new groups could be established, but now contrary processes are going on, and there is a need to reconsider the relationship between the parties that were allies during several months," the editor-in-chief of Yeni Musavat newspaper Rauf Arifoglu told Trend on Oct. 7.
Movement for Karabakh and Republic was established by Azerbaijani People Front, Party of Citizen and Development, Liberal party, Azerbaijani Democratic party, Musavat party, Umid party, as well as several public organizations in connection the referendum on additions and amendments to the Constitution which took place on March 18, 2009.
According to Arifoglu, the crisis within the opposition hampers preparations for the municipal elections.
"As a result, the chances of the opposition in any case reduced. According to my observations, the opposition camp does not seriously prepare for municipal elections. One of the main reasons is that municipal election is not considered as principle election. Because the powers of municipalities are informally delegated to the executive authorities," said the editor-in-chief.
As regards to the possibility of new opposition parties, as the current can not influence the political processes in the country, the editor-in-chief said that nobody prevents the appearance of new forces in Azerbaijan.
Arena is empty in certain sense. I also do not intend to create any political organization under this situation. My main goal is to preserve and develop the Yeni Musavat newspaper, strengthen its leadership," said Arifoglu.
According to the editor-in-chief, it is possible that in future the situation will change. "In any case, I have my own political interests and certain image. Therefore, it is possible that in future I will present my goals and interests. But yet I remain an active member of the Musavat Party like those who participated in its re-establishment. I try to support and consider it my moral duty in any situation to take the side of the party," said Arifoglu.
Azerbaijani opposition movement thinks it impossible to participate in municipal elections as a block.
About 30,000-40,000 manat will be required. We do not have these funds, chairman of Azerbaijani Democratic Party represented in Movement for Karabakh and Republic, Sardar Jalaloglu, told Trend on October 8.
"It is necessary to have common decision of each party and organization of the block for a candidate for elections. Moreover, all certifications and charters of each party must be certified by notary.
Azerbaijani municipal elections will be held on December 23. About 15,682 municipal members are planned to be elected for 1,718 municipalities.
Municipal elections were held twice in 1999 and 2004.
Jalaloglu said that they have not received positive answer concerning simplification of this procedure as a result of their appeal to the Central Electoral Commission. "I think that participation at elections in the form of block is very serious problem. So, we try for members of all parties represented in the movement to participate at elections individually," chairman of the party.
He said that the movement will not be able to conduct election campaign properly due to participation of candidates at elections individually. I think that only representatives of ruling New Azerbaijan party will achieve success at municipal elections within these terms. We will allow members of our movement to nominate their candidatures easily," Jalaloglu said.
Movement for Karabakh and Republic was founded on the eve of the referendum due to additions and changes made to the constitution held on March 18, 2009.
The movement is represented by People's Front party, the Citizens and Development party, Liberal party, Musavat party, Umid Party, Azerbaijani Democratic Party.
About 60 candidates will represent the Azerbaijani National Socialist Party (ANSP) in the Azerbaijani municipal elections to be held on Dec.23, the ANSP Deputy Chairman, Rustam Shahsuvarov told Trend on Oct.8.
According to Shahsuvarov, the ANSP began to determine candidates in the regional organizations and candidates of some regions will be registered soon.
The Civil Movement for Karabakh and Republic may remain in any form and each party may participate in the election in such a way that it wishes, Acting Chairman of the Azerbaijani Liberal Party Avaz Temirkhan told Trend .
"We are supporters of the party's remaining in the format of functional cooperation in connection with the Karabakh problem. Regarding the elections, each party is free to participate in it together with any other party. I believe that is way out of this situation," Temirkhan said.
There is no need to withdraw any party from the movement, because this may affect people to think negatively about the opposition, Temirkhan said.
Heads of opposition parties differently explain problems and discontent occurring in Azerbaijani opposition parties on the eve of elections.
Such problems are always provoked by Musavat party, chairman of opposition Azerbaijani Democratic Party Sardar Jalaloglu told Trend on October 9.
"Actions to destroy opposition unions occurring recently are political tactics of Musavat party. Campaign should not be held against a party with which joint combat was conducted. Thus, Azerbaijani Democratic Party was excluded from Azadliq block. Our participation in the process to remove any party from the movement by uniting with anyone is impossible," chairman of Azerbaijani Democratic Party said.
Jalaloglu said that this tactics becomes one of reasons of democracy's lack in Azerbaijan.
"Opposition turned out to be in this situation due to rather low political and cultural level, absence of devotion to democratic values, as well as preference of personal interests. I can not understand why these problems are provoked by Musavat party. But tough terms harm our common case. The party explains them as observance to common interests. If parties without accepting conditions are removed from the movement, it can bring profit to common case," he said.
He said that opposition is insufficiently strong but level of the society's activity is low. "Taking all this into account, I think that we must strive for union," Jalaloglu said.
"Shortages in activity of opposition parties promote weakening of opposition and strengthening of the government," chairman of the Citizens and Development party represented in the Movement of Karabakh and Republic, Ali Aliyev, told Trend on October 9.
He said that crisis in the movement can greatly damage common goals. "We try crisis not to intensify. We try to solve problems during discussions in the movement," Aliyev said.
He said that joint activity of six parties is conducted successfully. "So, it is necessary to preserve this format. Now, we must think about strengthening and expansion of our parties," he said.
Public interests must be more important than personal ones for each party, Aliyev said.
"Public interests require more strengthening of opposition," he said.
"Musavat party addressed with a proposal to reform election commissions at parity basis. So, it is necessary to implement the condition concerning withdrawal of members of Umid party from commissions," chairman of Musavat party's Majlis represented in the Movement for Karabakh and Republic, Sulkhaddin Akbar, told Trend on October 9.
"Our proposal for Umid party to submit principal position on this issue to continue more strengthening of our joint activity," organization man of Musavat said.
Akbar said that limited time hampered for the proposal to be laid down while establishing movement on the eve of the referendum.
"If we laid down this proposal then, we might have been accused of hampering joint combat against referendum. We should take into account that Parliamentary elections will be held in 2010. So, it is necessary to form common position concerning staff of commissions," he said.
Musavat party represented in the 'Movement for Karabakh and Republic' calls Umid party for withdrawal of its members from election commissions. Umid party said that it will fulfill this requirement if members of Musavat MP group refuse from their mandates.
Tension between two parties was the reason of serious crisis in the movement.
Movement for Karabakh and Republic was founded on the eve of the referendum due to additions and changes made to the constitution held on March 18, 2009.
The movement is represented by People's Front party, the Citizens and Development party, Liberal party, Musavat party, Umid Party, Azerbaijani Democratic Party.
NAGORNO-KARABAKH
On Oct. 4, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from an area outside the Marzili in the Agdam region at 08:30-08:50, from an area outside the Gulustan in the Goranboy region at 20:30-21:10 and from the positions near the Garakhanbayli village in the Fuzuli region at 22:30-23:00, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.
The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.
Some 2, 710, 014 sq. m. of area was cleared from mines and unexploded ammunition in September, 2009.
The Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Actions (ANAMA) revealed and detonated 10, 900 unexploded ammunition and mines in this territory, the ANAMA told Trend on Oct.5.
Some 425 specialists, 115 assistant staff, 5 mechanized mine clearing cars and 30 mine detector dogs took part in it.
So far, 112, 975, 482 sq. m. of area was demined and 488, 507unexploded ammunitions were detonated.
The ANAMA carries out demining in Tartar, Agdam, Fuzuli, Agstafa and Tovuz regions of Azerbaijan and in Garadagh region of Baku.
In September, two cases of mine/unexploded ammunition were fixed.
On Oct. 5, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from areas in the Fuzuli region at 21:30-21:45 and Oct. 6, from an area outside the Ashagi Abdulrahmanli village in the Fuzuli region at 02:55-03:30, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.
The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.
For a long and lasting peace in the region, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict must be resolved within the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, said Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister.
"For a long and lasting peace in the region, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan must be resolved as soon as possible within the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan," said Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov during meeting with the U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy Daniel B. Poneman, the press-service of the Foreign Ministry reported.
The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. Armenian armed forces have occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan since 1992, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and 7 surrounding districts. Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a ceasefire agreement in 1994. The co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group - Russia, France, and the U.S. - are currently holding the peace negotiations.
Also highly assessing the energy cooperation between the U.S. and Azerbaijan and stressing the importance of geographical position of Azerbaijan, Elmar Mammadyarov said that along with the fact that Azerbaijan is an energy exporter, it also has the potential for transit transportation to the world markets.
Noting the broad relations between Azerbaijan and the United States, Poneman mentioned the long-term successful cooperation in the energy sector. He also said that the issue of ensuring global energy security is a priority in U.S. foreign policy and expressed support of his country for the delivery to the world energy markets.
On Oct. 7, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from areas near the Seysulan village of the Tartar region at 01:40- 01:55, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.
The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.
On Oct. 7, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from an area outside the Gorgan village in the Fuzuli region at 21:25-21:40 and on Oct. 8, from the positions near the Javahirli village in the Agdam region at 01:05-01:10, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.
The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.