Official chronicle
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has today wrapped up his working visit to Germany, and returned home, Azertaj State News Agency reported.
At the Heydar Aliyev International Airport, the President was welcomed by Prime Minister Artur Rasizade, Head of the Presidential Administration Ramiz Mehdiyev and Baku mayor Hajibala Abutalybov.
On Nov. 23, the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received the Russian Presidential Administration Chief Sergey Naryshkin.
Head of the Azerbaijan State expressed confidence the visit of the Russian presidential administration chief would promote further development of relations between the two countries.
Sergey Naryshkin informed about his today`s meetings he had in the capital of Baku, where, in particular, he inaugurated the Russian Book House, awarded Chairman of the Caucasian Muslims Office Sheikh-ul-Islam Haji Allahshukur Pashazade with the "Glory" Oder and took part at the opening of Vneshtorgbank's Azerbaijan branch.
President of Azerbaijan said the done works cover versatile fields of bilateral relations, including humanitarian and economic fields, and also promote strengthening of cooperation among the people of different religious confessions. President Aliyev reminded the recent international action in Baku which was also attended by the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, Kirill. Touching upon the economic relations, President Aliyev praised opening of the Vneshtorgbank`s branch in Azerbaijan, and said it would give impetus to implementation of numerous economic projects.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has today left for a working visit to Ulyanovsk city of Russia, the AzerTaj state news agency reported.
At the Heydar Aliyev International Airport, the head of state was seen off by Prime Minister Artur Rasizadeh, Chief of the Presidential Administration Ramiz Mehtiyev and Baku Mayor Hajibala Abutalybov
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev arrived to Ulyanovsk today. Russian President Dmitry Medvedev met the head of state at the airport, RIA Novosti reported.
Both presidents will hold a short round of talks in Ulyanovsk and discuss urgent issues of mutual cooperation, as well as international problems, including the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The presidents will also lay a wreath on a monument to Azerbaijani ex-President Heydar Aliyev in a city square of the same name.
As first deputy chairman of the Soviet Council of Ministers, Aliyev headed a state commission to salvage a ship wrecked on the Volga in 1983, as a result of which 176 people were killed.
A monument to Heydar Aliyev was erected in Ulyanovsk in July 2008 upon the initiative of the All-Russia Azerbaijani Congress. The town planning board decided to name the square where the monument stands in Aliyev's honor in September 2009.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev have participated in opening ceremony of the upper tier a new bridge via Volga, RIA Novosti reported.
During the ceremony Medvedev said that it is a pleasant and long-expected day for all of us.
"The construction lasted from early 1980. Then first deputy chairman of USSR ministerial board Heydar Aliyev contributed to make decision concerning opening of this bridge," Medvedev said.
"I am very pleased that Azerbaijani incumbent president Ilham Aliyev participates in this ceremony," Russian President said.
"The construction has been implemented with variable success for 20 years. We have recently found funds, concentrated efforts and got result," Medvedev said.
He stressed that this bridge connects parts of our large country - Europe with Urals and Siberia. It is unexampled bridge. This long construction demonstrates both scale of our country and those complicated tasks which we solve with difficulty but solve," he said.
In his turn, Azerbaijani President speaking about opening of bridge transition said that it is a grand architectural and transportation construction on the European continent. It is unlikely to have analogues."
He, as his Russian counterpart, recalled that his father, Heydar Aliyev took part in making a decision to build a bridge in 1980. As you know, Heydar Aliyev has repeatedly arrived in Ulyanovsk. He was with people in good times and tragic moments for Ulyanovsk. He headed the commission for liquidation consequences of terrible accidents on the Volga (as a result of the shipwreck Alexander Suvorov 176 people died). I am very pleased that the memory of the Azerbaijani President is kept in Ulyanovsk," Aliyev said.
He said that during his work in Moscow and being the President Heydar Aliyev has always sought to strengthen relations between the peoples of Russia and Azerbaijan.
"I am very pleased that today our countries cooperate successfully. We have very close relations, frequent contacts at the presidential level. We characterize these relations as a strategic partnership, as the relations of good neighbors and friends, the Azerbaijani president said.
Construction of two-tier Bridge over the Volga River has been held since 1986. It is included in the federal target program Modernization of transport system of Russia (2000-2010). Bridge crossing is a transport corridor linking the European part of Russia with the Urals, Siberia and the Far East.
The length of the first starting transition via the Volga River hits about 13 kilometers, including the bridge over the Volga River - 5.8 kilometers and approaches to the bridge - 7,1 kilometers.
The span of the bridge is bunk. Four-lane traffic is planned to be made on the upper tier but the two-way - on the bottom.
According to the forecasts, traffic density on the bridge can hit up to 30,000 cars per day.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev laid a wreath on the monument to Heydar Aliyev in Ulyanovsk. Afterwards, both presidents met with representatives of Azerbaijani Diaspora who attended the ceremony.
The said that there is a school in which the Azerbaijani language is taught in Ulyanovsk. Azerbaijani football team, music collectives observe the traditions.
Ilham Aliyev said that he is very glad that Azerbaijanis keep their traditions, remember their state figures. They are good citizens of the country in which they live.
The Azerbaijani President said that opening of the bridge in Ulyanovsk via the Volga River and conferring the name of Heydar Aliyev, the third Azerbaijani President in Ulyanovsk square. It is a sign of friendship.
Medvedev agreed with him and stressed Heydar Aliyev's significant contribution in construction of this bridge. He emphasized that launch of the bridge is a peculiar monument to Heydar Aliyev.
He expressed satisfaction that Azerbaijani Diaspora has found its place in culture and life of Ulyanovsk.
"We can meet with Ilham Aliyev not only in Moscow, Saint-Petersburg and Sochi. Russia is a large country. It has many interesting cities. It is useful to hold meetings there," the Russian President said.
On Nov. 24, the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev visited a monument to Nariman Narimanov in Ulyanovsk.
The Head of State laid flowers at the monument. President Ilham Aliyev chatted with members of the Azerbaijani diaspora.
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has today wrapped up his working visit to Russian city of Ulyanovsk, and returned home.
At the Heydar Aliyev International Airport, the President was welcomed by Prime Minister Artur Rasizade, Head of the Presidential Administration Ramiz Mehdiyev and Baku mayor Hajibala Abutalybov.
On Nov. 25, the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Polish delegation led by Minister of National Defense Bogdan Klich, AzerTAj state news agency reported.
The President said relationship between Azerbaijan and Poland was developing successfully. He described bilateral political ties as "high level".
According to the Head of State, meetings of the two countries` leaders are "intensive" and "fruitful".
He added both Azerbaijan and Poland are keen on boosting cooperation in various spheres.
The President expressed hope that the Polish minister`s current trip to Azerbaijan will contribute to strengthening of ties between defense ministries of the countries.
For his part, Bogdan Klich said his visit to Azerbaijan is a good chance to contribute to developing relations between the two countries.
The minister expressed assurance that he would have "fruitful meetings" in Baku during the visit.
On Nov. 25, the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received a delegation led by the head of the Ago monitoring group, Ambassador of Romania to the Council of Europe Stelian Stoyan, AzerTAj state news agency reported.
Stelian Stoyan expressed his gratitude to the Head of State for the opportunity to realize an extensive program of the visit. The guest remembered the fruitful activities of President Ilham Aliyev in the Council of Europe and highlighted the close relationship between the organization and Azerbaijan. Stelian Stoyan considers it necessary to study the possibilities to intensify relations between Azerbaijan and the Council of Europe, noting the importance of organization member countries' supporting each other.
President Ilham Aliyev stressed the importance of Ago monitoring group's broad program of visit to Azerbaijan, which provided a good opportunity to closely get familiarized with the country, exchange views during the meetings and get acquainted with the existing realities in Azerbaijan. During the meeting, was held an exchange of views on prospects of cooperation between Azerbaijan and the monitoring group.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has today inspected reconstruction work in the Heydar Aliyev park here.
The green area of the park will be expanded. The amenities of the park will also include 5 fountains, cafe, children`s entertainment center, leisure centers.
On Nov. 26, Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev familiarized himself with reconstruction work done in a Center of Culture in Shamakhi city.
A photo stand was created in the center's foyer featuring what national leader Heydar Aliyev and President Ilham Aliyev have done to protect and develop culture of Azerbaijan.
The Head of State was informed that the reconstruction work was started in 2007 and completed in 2008.
The center includes modern lighting system and a hall for 300 people. President Ilham Aliyev listened to the songs sung by children.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev today attended inauguration ceremony of the Heydar Aliyev Center in Shamakhi city, one of the cultural centers of country.
Head of the Azerbaijan State got acquainted with the Center`s facilities. He was informed about the construction history of the 3-storey Center built in the territory of Heydar Aliyev Park.
As was informed, the Center includes multimedia, national craftsmanship, painting circles, e-library, computer center and other sectors.
The Center features rich photo and film materials depicting the lifetime political activity of the national leader.
On Nov. 26, Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev inspected reconstruction works at Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory.
The observatory was founded in 1959 in initiatives of Azerbaijan's prominent scientists Hasan Aliyev and Yusif Mammadaliyev. It is 10 km away from Shamakhi at the altitude of 1500 m above the sea level. The observatory has six telescopes, and also features a 40-apartment 5-storied and five 2-storied house buildings, several cottages and a hotel.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev issued a decree making amendments and additions to some laws
Upon the decree, amendments shall be made to the laws of the Azerbaijan Republic on Courts and Judges, on Service in Municipalities, on the Prosecutor's Office, on Notary, on Legal Profession and Legal Activities, on Status of Municipality Member, on State Service, on Service in Prosecutor's Office, on Service in Justice Agencies.
The Cabinet of Ministers is in charge of submitting to the President of Azerbaijan the proposals on bringing existing legislation into conformity with the laws, ensuring compliance with regulations of the Cabinet of Ministers and relevant central executive organs and informing the President within one month, as well as addressing other issues arising from this law.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed the decree to call up for active service from Jan. 1 to 30 and to transfer military men of urgent active service to the reserve, the AzerTaj state news agency said.
All Azerbaijani citizens born from 1975 to 1991 and aged under 35 years, without a right for draft deferment in the armed forces and other armed units envisaged by the legislation are called up for active service from Jan. 1 to 30, 2009 upon the decree in accordance with the law 'Foundations of call-up for military service in the Azerbaijani Republic' to recruit armed forces and other armed units envisaged by the legislation.
Soldiers, sailors and ensigns completing the service envisaged by the law on 'Military service' are transferred to the reserve from Jan. 1 to 30, 2009.
The Cabinet of Ministers and local executive agencies were charged to fulfill actions envisaged by the legislation to implement the decree.
On Nov. 25, Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on additional measures to improve the provision of medical services in Agdam region.
Upon the decree, the Reserve Fund of President of Azerbaijan allocated one million manat to Agdam district executive power for construction new children's hospital and maternity home in the Guzanly village.
The Ministry of Finance is in charge of providing the fund and the Cabinet of Ministers - resolving issues arising from the decree.
The President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev congratulated the President of Bosnia and Herzegovina Zeljko Komsic on the national holiday - the Day of Education of Bosnia and Herzegovina, AzerTAj state news agency reported.
Azerbaijani President expressed hope that the friendship and cooperation between the two countries will develop in the future.
Ilham Aliyev expressed the Head of Bosnia and Herzegovina, best wishes and wished the friendly people of this country peace and prosperity.
On Nov. 23, the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on additional measures for further improvement of drinking water in Agsu district.
Upon the decree, the Reserve Fund of Azerbaijan President provided 3.7 million manat to the Agsu Executive Power.
The Finance Ministry is in charge of financing providing funds stipulated in the decree and the Cabinet of Ministers is in charge of resolving issues from the order.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev congratulated the President of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz on the Independence Day.
"On my own behalf and on behalf of Azeri people, I congratulate You and Your people on national holiday - Independence Day. I hope that the Azerbaijani-Mauritanian relations will continuously develop and expand in line with friendship and cooperation. I extend You my best wishes and wish You and the friendly people peace and prosperity," congratulatory letter said.
Also, President Ilham Aliyev congratulated the President of Albania Bamir Topi on the Flag Day.
"I express you and Your people my most sincere congratulations on the occasion of National Day of the Republic of Albania - Flag Day. I hope that the development of friendly relations and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Albania will continue to serve the interests of our peoples. On this auspicious day, I wish you good health and success and the friendly people of Albania - peace and progress," the letter said.
On Nov. 26, Azerbaijan President congratulated Azeri people on Gurban Bayram (Festival of Sacrifice), AzerTAj state news agency reported.
"I warmly congratulate you and all our compatriots living in different parts of the world on sacred Gurban holiday, convey to all of you my most sincere wishes. Blessed Gurban Holiday, symbolizing the completion of Islam as a religion, revealed to mankind as a moral and ethical way of salvation, is a holiday urging people to charity, solidarity, brotherhood and humanism. On this bright day, Muslims show their readiness to sacrifice for the sake of Allah (God) and religion in the name of noble ideas, get their chance to feel proud of closeness to God," President said in his congratulatory letter.
According to President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan is an integral part of the Muslim world and historically has made an invaluable contribution to the development of Islamic culture.
The U.S. President Barack Obama congratulated Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev on Gurban Bayram (Festival of Sacrifice).
"On behalf of the American people, I extend my best wishes as You and your people celebrate the reverent and joyous occasion of Eid Al-Adha," the congratulation message says.
"I wish you and Azeri people happiness and welfare," the letter says.
"My hope is that in the spirit of this blessed celebration we can work together to achieve freedom and peace throughout the world. May you and the people of Azerbaijan enjoy happiness and peace in the years ahead," the President said.
Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev has sent a letter of condolence to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King of Saudi Arabia Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud over a great loss of file as the result of floods in the country.
"The news of a considerable loss of life and damages caused by floods in your country was a source of great sorrow to me. We mourn with you today, and, on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan and on my own behalf, I offer sincere condolences and sympathies to you, families and friends of the dead and the whole people of Saudi Arabia, and also wish the injured a speedy recovery" - the President said in his letter.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has presented condolences to his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev with train derailment which took place on Nov.27, AzerTaj State Information Agency reported.
"I was very upset about the news of deaths resulting from Nevsky Express train derailment."
On behalf of the Azerbaijani people and on my own behalf I express our sincere condolences to you and the relatives of the deceased. I wish the injured speedy recovery, " the message says.
Parliament
The Parliamentary Assembly of the Turkish-speaking countries (TurkPA) must develop efficient mechanisms to work within international organizations to address issues affecting the interests of Turkic peoples, Azerbaijani Parliamentary Vice Speaker Bahar Muradova said at a summit of the European Azerbaijani Congress and Azerbaijani-Turkish Diaspora Organization Coordination Council, the Azerbaijani State Committee for the Diaspora said today.
The European Azerbaijani Congress and Azerbaijani-Turkish Diaspora Organization Coordination Council held a joint meeting in Frankfurt Nov. 21-22.
Azerbaijani Parliamentary Vice Speaker Bahar Muradova and Azerbaijani Presidential Administration Social and Political Department head Ali Hasanov participated at the meeting, as well as State Committee for Diaspora Activities Chairman Nazim Ibrahimov, Azerbaijani MPs Sabir Rustamkhanli and Fazil Mustafayev, several Turkish MPs, scientists and intellectuals from the European Azerbaijani Congress and Azerbaijani-Turkish Diaspora Organization Coordination Council.
According to Muradova, TurkPA member countries must bring the structure to an international level, forming a parliamentary assembly composing all such organizations across the world.
Muradova said the assembly must organize activities to form a unified position on matters that affect the interests of Turkic-language countries.
However, Azerbaijan's and Turkey's solidarity is at the moment of the utmost importance, she said. According to the official, foreign countries are attempting to influence their relations.
Armenia delays the solution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, the First Vice Speaker of the Parliament of Azerbaijan said.
At a meeting with a member of the House of Lords of Great Britain, John Desmond Forbes Anderson Veyverli, the First Vice Speaker of Azerbaijani Parliament Ziyafet Askerov spoke about the essence of the Nagorno-Karabakh problem. He said that the meetings of parliamentarians have been held for more than ten years, but aggressive Armenia does not behave as a serious state and refuses positive tendencies achieved in the negotiations, thus delaying the solution of the conflict, the press office of the Parliament told Trend on Nov. 23.
According to Askerov, despite 18 years activity of the OSCE Minsk Group, there is no result. "Being interested in preserving the status quo, Armenia does not fulfill UN Security Council's four resolutions, does not follow international legal norms and principles," the report said.
Askerov said that Azerbaijan is a supporter of peace and wants a peaceful solution to the conflict. "But if Armenia would indefinitely delay the peaceful solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh, Azerbaijan will have to liberate its occupied lands by military means," he said
According to him, the international community approaches the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict with the position of observer. Askerov also highlighted another important point, saying that the world countries should not have same attitude towards Azerbaijan experiencing occupation and occupant Armenia. "These two countries should be assessed for their actions, and to resolve the conflict it is necessary to look through this prism," said the First Vice Speaker.
To resolve the conflict, firstly the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan must be ensured, later refugees and internally displaced persons must be returned to their homes and the security of Armenians living in Nagorno-Karabakh must be guaranteed, said Lord Veyverli.
"Azerbaijan has implemented most of the commitments to the Council of Europe and today our country has close cooperation with this structure," Azerbaijani International and Inter-parliamentary Committee Member Gultakin Hajibeyli told Trend today.
When joining the Council of Europe in 2001, Azerbaijan began undertaking a series of commitments and the Council of Europe's Monitoring Committee controls their implementation.
According to the official, Azerbaijan has taken significant steps to bring its legislation into line with European standards.
"All the country's laws comply with international standards. Azerbaijan's way is the path of democratic development. Best practices have been applied in this way given the values of Europe," the MP said.
Commenting on the visit of the AGO Group to Azerbaijan, Hajibeyli said such visits are carried out systematically.
"Azerbaijan is under the structure's supervision, so such visits are natural. Only the law on alternative military service was not fulfilled from among the country's undertaken obligations. The adoption of this law is inexpedient from the standpoint that at present Azerbaijan is at war. The Council of Europe is aware of this," she said.
There is a need to further improve domestic violence legislation, Azerbaijani Vice Parliamentary Speaker Bahar Muradova said today.
"It is high time to improve legislation on domestic violence and adopt a special law," Muradova said today in Baku at a joint event of the OSCE, parliament and State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs on preventing domestic violence.
The parliament submitted a bill on domestic violence for discussion in 2008. However, the legislation was returned for revision.
Muradaova said no one wants tragedy to strike Azerbaijani families.
"Domestic violence is not only characteristic of Azerbaijan. It exists in all developed countries," the vice speaker said. She said according to legislation, families, women and children are protected by the state. But really they are not protected from violence.
Azerbaijani MPs want the foreign minister to issue a report on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
"Parties in parliament should be informed about the situation, as well as talks on the settlement of the conflict," said Great Establishment Party Chairman Fazail Mustafa said at a parliamentary session.
Mustafa said closed hearings should be held on the talks with parliament and the foreign minister and deputy foreign minister.
"To resolve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in accordance with Azerbaijan's interests, we should establish an even closer relationship with Russia," Unified Popular Front Party Chairman Gudrat Hasanguliyev said.
He added that Azerbaijan could join the Collective Security Treaty to settle the conflict.
"I think that in this way we would have the ability to influence Armenia's position via Russia. If necessary, we could agree to place Russian's military bases in Azerbaijan," he said
"There is no need to submit to parliament a report on talks to resolve Nagorno-Karabakh, " said MP, Deputy Executive Secretary of the ruling New Azerbaijan Party Mubariz Gurbanli. "The president has constantly voiced the position of our state on the highest level."
He added that parliament should only consider the adoption of a law related to the occupied territories.
"Passing this law, we would have restrictions on international organizations' and companies' visitng Nagorno-Karabakh," Gurbanli said.
Political movements
Azerbaijani party Umid intends to be leading opposition party.
"I took the second place in the presidential elections in 2008. At present, our party is leading opposition party," Umid party chairman, MP Iqbal Agazade told Trend today.
Agazade said that at present, opposition fights for its existence. So, the issue on the place of any party has not been raised.
"At present, there are 3-4 parties in Azerbaijan. They have real opportunity to influence on structure, public and political processes. One of them is Umid party," he said.
He said that if the democratic elections are held, it will be clear which place each party will take. "I think that a place and a position of our party will be determined in the process of the municipal elections. So, after ruling party, Umid party nominated most of candidates," Agazade said.
During a visit to Baku from Nov. 23, the AGO Group discussed with the Azerbaijani opposition in Baku the country's political and social situation and municipal and parliamentary elections, Umid Party Chairman Igbal Agazade told Trend today.
"The sides discussed human rights and freedom of media, the issue of the imprisoned journalists and the court's decision regarding young bloggers," he said. "We said international organizations should pose a question to Azerbaijan about releasing these young bloggers. The AGO Group said they will raise this question in their meeting with senior Azerbaijani officials."
Agazade added that the meeting was attended by leaders of the Azerbaijani Democrat, Musavat and Umid parties, as well as the parties in the Azadlig bloc, including the Azerbaijani National Front, Liberal and Society and Development parties, and For the Sake of Azerbaijan Public Forum head Eldar Namazov.
Azerbaijan has registered the opposition party Aydinlar, party deputy chairman Qabil Ibrahimli told Trend today.
Aydinlar was established on Dec.14, 2008
"The Aydinlar Party intends to take part in all elections in Azerbaijan. At present, we plan to participate in the municipal elections in 2009 and the parliamentary ones in 2010. We also plan to take part in the presidential elections in 2013", Chairman Gulamhuseyn Alibayli said at the constitutional convention of the party.
Ibrahimli said that the Justice Ministry will issue the certification on registration on Nov. 25.
Elections
Equal terms were created for the ruling New Azerbaijan Party and other parties to be register as candidates for the municipal elections, Presidential Administration head Ramiz Mehdiyev told media today.
"Parties complain that the social resources of the parties that call themselves opposition have already been spent. They tried to increase the number of their representatives through acts of falsification. Our goal is to conduct real democratic elections in Azerbaijan," Mehdiyev said.
Several opposition parties said they had problems while registering candidates for the municipal elections in Azerbaijan.
Mehdiyev said several opposition parties admit individuals to their parties without notifying the election commissions.
When these people submitted their documents, they were asked which party they represent. They mentioned a different party than the one on the list. The opposition wanted to increase the number of their members through such illegal acts, the Presidential Administration head said.
Azerbaijan hosts training on the role and purpose of the municipal elections for constituencies.
"Training aims to educate members of the election commissions," the Azerbaijani Central Election Commission (CEC) Secretary Natig Mammadov said on Nov. 23.
Mammadov said that members of the commission must consider the Electoral Code thoroughly to hold municipal elections at high level. "Using of CEC instructions would be helpful to hold elections," CEC Secretary said.
The training will continue for four days, Mammadov said. "Besides, Baku they will be organized in different regions of the country," he said.
CEC Secretary said that comprehensive training is being held regarding with holding of municipal elections at the high level.
"We have enough experience to hold the open and transparent elections. The international organizations can easily observe the processes related with elections," Mammadov said.
Only the ruling New Azerbaijan Party (NAP) can use the free ether time to hold agitation on the municipal elections, the press secretary of the Central Election Commission of Azerbaijan Azer Sariyev briefed the media.
"According to the legislation, the party, whose candidates are registered in more than half of the municipalities, can use free ether time. Only NAP achieved this indicator," Sariyev said.
All conditions have been created in Azerbaijan for campaigning for the municipal elections, the Chairman of the Central Election Commission (CEC) Mazahir Panahov said at a meeting with a delegation of the Ago monitoring group of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe.
According to the CEC Chairman, about 32,000 candidates have been registered. In these elections, candidates were registered from 18 political parties. In general, the candidates represent 30 political parties.
"All necessary steps will be taken to hold elections in a fair, transparent and democratic atmosphere, and the electoral rights of citizens participating in elections will be fully ensured," said Panahov..
Foreign policy
Azerbaijani Consul General in Los Angeles Elin Suleymanov and Vice Consul Elshan Baloglanov discussed Azerbaijani-U.S. cooperation with local government representatives in Nevada, the state body told Trend .
At the meeting, the sides discussed the policy of the Azerbaijani leadership strengthening regional security, intensifying dialogue among civilizations and diversifying energy sources.
The importance of rapidly resolving regional conflicts from the standpoint of U.S. strategic interests was also stressed.
Nevada Governor Jim Gibbons and Senator Harry Reid sent a congratulatory statement to meeting participants.
Azerbaijani Defense Minister Safar Abiyev and U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia Celeste Wallander discussed U.S-Azerbaijani cooperation, the situation in the South Caucasus and Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh, the ministry's press service told Trend today.
Abiyev brought to Wallander's attention Armenia's attempts to delay negotiations to resolve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Abiyev also met with member of the House of Lords of the British Parliament Lord Waverley.
Azerbaijan is interested in further expansion of cooperation with the United States, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov said at a meeting with U.S. Deputy assistant secretary of defense for Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia Policy, Celeste Wallander, who is on a visit to Baku, on Nov. 23.
"Azerbaijan is cooperating with the United States in all spheres, and our country is interested in further expansion of this cooperation," said the Minister, the Foreign Ministry's press office said.
According to Mammadyarov, Azerbaijan has contributed to Afghanistan not only in security, but also in humanitarian, educational and other spheres guaranteeing the population to live in normal conditions.
During the meeting, the sides exchanged views on the bilateral cooperation, regional and global security.
U.S. appreciates Azerbaijan's contribution to international anti-terrorism operations and support to ensure peace and stability in Afghanistan, said Ms. Wallander.
Azerbaijan and Japan intend to develop political cooperation.
Consultations between the Azerbaijani and Japanese foreign ministries will be held in Baku in early 2010, Azerbaijani Embassy to Japan Adviser Gursel Ismailzade told Trend today.
A Japanese Foreign Ministry delegation will visit Baku to negotiate with their Azerbaijani colleagues in early 2010. All political cooperation issues on a bilateral level and within international organizations are expected to be discussed at the talks.
New Korean Ambassador to Azerbaijan Li Chi-Han presented his credentials to Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Press Center told Trend .
The ambassador promised to make every effort to develop economic, political and cultural relations between the countries during his tenure in Azerbaijan.
The Azerbaijani foreign minister in turn expressed his satisfaction with the countries' bilateral relations and stressed the need to use each and every opportunity to further develop their ties.
Azerbaijan and India are likely to develop the political cooperation.
The Azerbaijan-India ministerial consultations will be held in Baku in early 2010, Azerbaijani Ambassador to India Tamerlan Garayev told Trend on Nov.25. The Indian Foreign Ministry's delegation will visit Baku in early 2010 to hold talks with the Azerbaijani counterparts.
The sides are expected to discuss all the issues of political cooperation at the bilateral level and within international organizations.
"The negotiataions held between the Azerbaijani and Czech delegations in Prague [yesterday] were productive and held in an atmosphere of mutual understanding," Azerbaijani Ambassador to the Czech Republic Tahir Tagizade told Trend today.
"The Czech Republic appreciates Azerbaijan's priorities of strengthening security and restoring stability in the South Caucasus," he said. "The country also fully supports Azerbaijan's efforts in European integration and the development of a comprehensive dialogue within the Eastern Partnership program," he told Trend over the phone from Prague.
Azerbaijan was represented at yesterday's meeting by Deputy Foreign Minister Khalaf Khalafov, and the Czech side by Czech Foreign Ministry Secretary General Milan Sedlachek, the ambassador said. He added that a wide range of issues were discussed.
Azerbaijani foreign minister Elmar Mammadyarov received Moldavian ex-ambassador Ion Rob completing his diplomatic mission in Azerbaijan, the foreign ministry press-center told Trend today.
During the meeting Ion Rob expressed satisfaction with his work as Moldavian ambassador to Azerbaijan.
Ex-ambassador said that his activity was aimed to expand and develop bilateral relations in all spheres. He emphasized useful cooperation with the Azerbaijani foreign ministry in this sphere.
Diplomat stressed that he leaves Azerbaijan with pleasant impressions, as well as thanked for rendered support and attention.
Azerbaijani foreign minister wished Ion Rob success in his further activit
Poland is ready to provide the necessary support for Azerbaijan's integration into European institutions, Polish Defense Minister Bogdan Klich said today at a meeting with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov.
The Polish minister said relations between the two countries are developing both on a bilateral level and within international organizations.
During the meeting, the sides expressed satisfaction with the level of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Poland. They stressed that relations between the two nations' leaders are providing an impetus for development.
Mammadyarov noted that Poland is able to play a significant role in Azerbaijan's cooperation with the EU and NATO.
Thanking the Polish side for supporting Azerbaijan's position in resolving the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and its territorial integrity, Mammadyarov said the situation can only be solved while honoring the country's territorial integrity.
Human Rights
The AGO Group intends to discuss Azerbaijan's commitments to the Council of Europe in Baku, head of the group and Romanian Ambassador to the Council of Europe Stelian Stoian said today after arriving Baku.
"The AGO Group operates within the Council of Europe and is primarily involved in Azerbaijan and Armenia to determine whether the two countries are moving forward in the implementation of reforms within the council," Stoian added.
According to the official, the group is expected to meet with senior Azerbaijani officials during the visit, as well as civil society and political party representatives.
"We will discuss issues related to Azerbaijan's obligations to the structure, including human rights and freedom of the media. We can give as assessment only after the visit," he said.
According to Stoian, the group will prepare a report after the visit.
The AGO Group and Azerbaijani lawyers discsued human rights in Azerbaijan and court verdicts, Public Defender Elchin Behbudov told Trend .
According to the official, the sides also exchanged views on freedom of speech and imprisoned journalists, as well as young bloggers recently sentenced to imprisonment.
The AGO Group said they will discuss the issues with senior Azerbaijani officials, Behbudov said.
He added that human rights defenders Leyla Yunus, Arzu Abdullayeva, Eldar Zeynalov, and lawyers Aslan Ismailov, Fuad Agayev and Irada Javadov also attended the meeting.
The OSCE hopes Azerbaijan will adopt a law criminalizing domestic violence, OSCE Baku Office head Ali Bilge Cankorel said at a conference in Baku today on preventing domestic violence. The conference was organized by the OSCE, Azerbaijani parliament, and State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs.
"A domestic violence law was tabled in the Azerbaijani parliament in 2008, but sent back for improvements. This project has been improved using those suggestions," he said. "Problems of domestic violence cannot be immediately solved with the adoption of this law. The public should be interested in solving them and the population needs to be educated."
On Dec.17, 1999, the U.N. General Assembly declared Nov. 25 International Day for Fighting Violence Against Women.
The Azerbaijani Justice Ministry's Penitentiary Service is likely to cooperate with the OSCE in establishing a national preventive mechanism (NPM), Deputy Justice Minister and Penitentiary Service head Nazim Alakbarov said at a seminar in Baku today.
The OSCE Baku Office, Azerbaijani Justice Ministry Democracy and Human Rights Department and Public Defender's Office began a two-day workshop on creating the NPM to prevent torture and other forms of violence in prisons.
Alakbarov said Azerbaijan is pushing numerous reforms to the penal system.
"The Penitentiary Service intends to cooperate in establishing the NPM with the OSCE and the Public Defender's Office," he said. "Advice from the OSCE and other international organizations is important for expanding reforms."
According to Alakbarov, the service prevents torture in prisons and noticeable improvements have been achieved in this regard.
Creating the NPM will enhance the powers of the Azerbaijani Public Defender's Office, Human Rights Ombudsman Elmira Suleymanov said. According to the official, after the adoption of a protocol to the convention against torture in January 2008, Azerbaijan began working actively in this direction.
"We sent a proposal to the president and parliament to establish an independent preventive mechanism at the Public Defender's Office and these activities require financial support," she said.
Nagorno-Karabakh conflict
A strong willingness has been displayed by the presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia, in a finding the ways of solution on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement, the U.S. co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group Robert Bradtke said.
"I think today was impressive the way, that two presidents worked with us, their willingness to discuss the points that are quite difficult and quite controversial and I think, as someone who is relatively new to this process, that is what impressed me the most," he added.
The meeting of presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia in the residence of the French Consul General in Munich was organized on the initiative of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairmen Yuri Merzlyakov (Russia), Bernard Fassier (France) and Robert Bradtke (USA). The talks held with the participation of foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia, Elmar Mamedyarov and Edward Nalbadyan, as well as the personal representative of the OSCE Andzei Kasprzyk.
The talks held with the participation of foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia, Elmar Mamedyarov and Edward Nalbadyan, as well as the personal representative of the OSCE Andzei Kasprzyk.
The presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia, Ilham Aliyev and Serzh Sargsyan during the sixth meeting in this year, held on Sunday a detailed discussion of solutions to the most important issues, said in the OSCE Minsk Group statement.
"The talks, lasted about four hours, were constructive. In some areas, progress has been made. At the same time some questions are still open," - said in a statement.
The talks held with the participation of foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia, Elmar Mamedyarov and Edward Nalbadyan, as well as the personal representative of the OSCE Andzei Kasprzyk.
Presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia have instructed their foreign ministers to continue their working with Co-Chairs, said in the statement.
The organization of the working session of two ministers on the eve of the OSCE Ministerial Council to be held in December in Athens is planned.
Monitoring was held on the contact line between Armenian and Azerbaijani armed forces on Nov.25, after a mandate by the special envoy of the OSCE chairman. The monitoring near the Yusifjanli village in Azerbaijan's Agdam region region proceeded without incident on Nov.25, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.
On Nov. 24, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from an area outside the Ashagi Veysalli and Ashagi Abdulrahmanli villages in the Fizuli region at 16:35-16:45, 19:25-19:35 and 22:50-23:10 and from an area outside Kuropatkino village in Khojavend region at 19:55-20:05, 21:49-22:02, 20:20-20:30 and 21:50-22:05, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.
On Nov. 26, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from an area outside the Sarijali village in the Agdam region at 12.30-12.45 and 22.40-22.50 and from an area outside Tapgaragoyunlu village in the Goranboy region at 14.30-14.35, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.
Further, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from an area outside Kuropatkino village in the Khojavend region at16.00-16.10 and 23.25-23.35, as well as from the positions and areas near the Mehdili and Jojugmarjanli villages in the Jabrayil region at 23.05-23.20 and from positions outside the Garakhanbayli village in the Fuzuli region at 14.05-14.25 and at 05.10-05.20 on Nov.27, the ministry reported.
The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.
On Nov. 27, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops near the Gulustan village of the Goranboy region at 15.10-15.30, the Azerbaijani defense ministry press-service said.
The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported that the Armenian soldiers fired at Azerbaijani troops from nameless heights of the Hojavand region and near Kuropatkino village on Nov. 27 at 21.30-21.45, 21.50-22.00 and 23.10-23.30, near Ashagi Vaysali and Karahanbayli villages of the Fizuli region, as well as near Tahibayli village of the Agdam region on Nov. 28 at 04.30-04.50.
The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.