Official chronicle
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev received the delegation led by Deputy Secretary-General of the Council of Europe Maud de Boer-Buquicchio.
During the meeting the sides exchanged views on the role of women in Azerbaijani society and participation of women in government and public organizations.
Gender equality is one of the priorities in the development of a modern democratic society and protection of human rights. Providing equality of women, independent Azerbaijan Republic's legislation serves to prevent any discrimination and the state policy on gender issues target providing equal opportunities for women, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said in his message to the Council of Europe Member-States Ministers' 7th conference on gender equality.
"The fundamental rights of our women, who constitute the majority of the million refugees and IDPs, violated as a result of the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, have not still recovered. Despite decisions of the international organizations, including UN and Council of Europe, supporting the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan all attempts to bring them back to their native land are fruitless. Failure to ensure gender equality, no doubt, requires an increase in the activities of many agencies and organizations at the international and national level. I am confident that the conference covering these issues will hold the detailed and effective discussion and make a worthy contribution to carrying out targeted activities in the future," the message says.
President Aliyev noted that establishing mutually beneficial relations in various spheres, Azerbaijan achieved good cooperation with the Council of Europe.
"Expansion of relations with the Council of Europe member-countries creates a solid ground for even more intensive approach and resolve possible problems in the future. It is also creditable that holding of the Council of Europe activities in our country adopted a traditional character," the message says.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev received a United Nations delegation led by Deputy Secretary General Asha-Rose Migiro.
Migiro, who is in Baku to attend the 7th Council of Europe Conference of Ministers responsible for Equality between Women and Men, conveyed greetings of UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to the Azerbaijani leader.
She said the UN Secretary General was "well aware" of economic development in Azerbaijan.
Migiro thanked President Ilham Aliyev for his message to the conference participants.
Recalling her meeting with Azerbaijan`s first lady, the Deputy Secretary General praised efforts of Mehriban Aliyeva and the Azerbaijani government to improve children`s healthcare.
The Head of State highlighted the importance of the 7th conference of Ministers responsible for Equality between Women and Men, expressing hope the event would contribute to general situation on gender equality in all participating countries, including Azerbaijan.
President Ilham Aliyev recalled his meeting with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon when the latter was Korea`s Foreign Minister.
The Head of State thanked for the UN Secretary General`s greetings and asked Migiro to reciprocate his greetings to him.
President of the Republic of Dagestan Magomedsalam Magomedov has today arrived in Azerbaijan, the AzerTaj state news agency reported.
Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister Yaqub Eyyubov and other officials met Magomedov at the international airport named after Heydar Aliyev.
The delegation headed by President Magomedov visited the memorial complex Martyrs' Alley.
The delegation laid flowers to the graves of gallant sons and daughters of Azerbaijan, who died for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan. There was also laid a wreath to "Eternal Flame".
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received President of the Russian Federation`s Republic of Dagestan Magomedsalam Magomedov.
The two presidents met one-on-one before being joined by their official delegations for an expanded meeting.
The President praised the fact Magomedsalam Magomedov chose Azerbaijan as his first destination to visit as Dagestan`s President.
President Ilham Aliyev said Azerbaijan and Dagestan were bound together by ties of history and culture.
"The visit by the Dagestani Republic`s President to Azerbaijan will bring our nations closer to each other and serve to explore prospects for cooperation in a variety of fields, in particular economic, and also to strength regional security and make investments."
The President also praised the Azerbaijan-Russia relations, calling them strategic.
President Ilham Aliyev expressed confidence the Dagestani leader`s visit would contribute to expanding the Azerbaijan-Russia relations.
Magomedsalam Magomedov, in turn, said Dagestan highly praised President Ilham Aliyev`s policy towards preserving tolerance in Azerbaijan.
The Dagestani leader said the Russia-Azerbaijan relations had had historical roots and had been based on good neighborhood and brotherhood. He also expressed confidence "these traditions will be preserved for the generations to come".
Later in the day, President Ilham Aliyev hosted a dinner in honor of the Dagestani leader.
The President of the Russian Federation's Republic of Dagestan Magomedsalam Magomedov on May 24 visited the Heydar Aliyev Foundation as part of his Azerbaijan trip.
The Dagestani President was briefed about the aims and activity of the Foundation.
Magomedov viewed the items taken from the national leader`s personal archive and also photographs featuring his lifetime and activities.
The Dagestani leader signed the Foundation's guest book.
Magomedov was presented a foundation-made "World of Mugham" CD.
The President of Dagestan also gave the Foundation a keepsake.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev received a United Nations delegation led by Deputy Secretary General Asha-Rose Migiro.
Migiro, who is in Baku to attend the 7th Council of Europe Conference of Ministers responsible for Equality between Women and Men, conveyed greetings of UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to the Azerbaijani leader.
She said the UN Secretary General was "well aware" of economic development in Azerbaijan.
Migiro thanked President Ilham Aliyev for his message to the conference participants.
Recalling her meeting with Azerbaijan`s first lady, the Deputy Secretary General praised efforts of Mehriban Aliyeva and the Azerbaijani government to improve children`s healthcare.
The Head of State highlighted the importance of the 7th conference of Ministers responsible for Equality between Women and Men, expressing hope the event would contribute to general situation on gender equality in all participating countries, including Azerbaijan.
President Ilham Aliyev recalled his meeting with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon when the latter was Korea`s Foreign Minister.
The Head of State thanked for the UN Secretary General`s greetings and asked Migiro to reciprocate his greetings to him.
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has today received an Egyptian delegation led by foreign minister Ahmed Aboul Gheit.
The Azerbaijani leader praised the relationship between the two countries.
The President recalled the meetings he held during his official visit to Egypt, stressing the importance of holding joint events.
The Head of State expressed confidence that the Egyptian minister`s visit would contribute to boosting the bilateral relations.
Aboul Gheit conveyed Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak`s greetings to President Ilham Aliyev, and handed over his letter to the Azerbaijani leader.
He praised development processes in Azerbaijan, in particular its stability and prosperity.
The Egyptian FM said he was impressed by state-of-the-art infrastructure and large-scale construction activities in the country.
President Ilham Aliyev said recent years had seen rapid development in all spheres of life in Azerbaijan.
He said important projects were successfully being carried out in the country`s capital and regions.
The Head of State underlined important measures were underway to turn Azerbaijan into a powerful and modern state.
President Ilham Aliyev asked Ahmed Aboul Gheit to convey his greetings to the Egyptian leader.
President Ilham Aliyev inaugurated a new building for State Migration Service on May 25.
President Ilham Aliyev cut a ribbon symbolizing the official opening of the building. The President toured the facilities in the building.
The seven-storey building with a total construction area of 7,944 sq.m was built in 17 months.
The building houses service rooms as well as Heydar Aliyev Museum, library, reception of citizens and security departments, meeting rooms, training center, canteen.
The Single Migration Data System was installed in the building in accordance with President Ilham Aliyev`s executive order.
A video surveillance system was set up to monitor what is going on in the State Migration Service`s regional offices in Yevlakh, Shirvan, Lankaran and Khachmaz as well as detention centers for illegal migrants.
The around-the-clock hotline service has been introduced to inform foreigners, stateless persons as well Azerbaijan nationals.
President Ilham Aliyev congratulated the staff of the State Migration Service and gave them recommendations.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has today visited a monument to the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic on the Istiglaliyyat Street.
A ceremonial guard of honor was lined up here.
President Aliyev placed a wreath at the monument.
The President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and his spouse Mehriban Aliyeva attended a ceremony marking May 28 - Republic Day at the Buta Palace on May 27.
The Head of State delivered a speech at the ceremony.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree approving the authorized bodies for the implementation of the Housing Code of Azerbaijan.
According to the presidential decree, the Azerbaijani Cabinet of Ministers was approved the authorized body to implement the Code.
The Azerbaijani State Committee on Property got powers in connection with the transition of non-residential area into a residential one.
In case of transfer of housing to refugees and internally displaced people, the State Committee on refugees and internally displaced people was determined the authorized agency.
The Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Ministry for Emergency Preparedness, Office of the State Historical-Architectural Reserve "Icherisher" under the Azerbaijani Cabinet of Ministers are determined authorized agencies to transfer residential assets in certain cases.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on the ratification, entry into force of the Housing Code, as well as issues of legal regulation September 1, 2009. The Housing Code consists of 145 articles that claim the basis of housing rights, the duties of the state in housing relations, the rights of municipalities, the types of residential areas, rules of living area.
The Code reflects the rules and basis of the contract in case of social rent, types of special purpose, the definition of residential space for dormitories, the definition of housing for social services to the population, the definition of temporary housing for refugees and internally displaced people.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree appointing Mammad Ahmadzadeh ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan to Argentina.
Upon another presidential decree, Mammad Ahmadzadeh was granted a diplomatic title of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev signed an order approving an inter-governmental agreement on lifting visa requirements for citizens of Azerbaijan and Qatar, who have diplomatic and special passports. The agreement was signed January 12, 2010 in Doha.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev signed an order on measures to rebuild Ajdarbey mosque in Baku on May 25.
The mosque, built in Baku in the beginning of last century, in 1912-1913 by the famous philanthropist Ajdarbay Ashurbayov, is one of the revered religious centers in Azerbaijan. At first, this holy place as a symbol of the unity of Muslims was known as the Mosque of Ittifag.
According to the order, 3 million manat have been allocated to Baku Executive Power from the President's Reserve Fund for 2010 in this regard.
The Ministry of Finance of Azerbaijan is in charge of implementing the procedure of funding provided by the Order.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree approving the Law on re-naming Azizbayov district of Baku into Khazar district.
The Cabinet of Ministers is in charge of preparing and submitting to the President of Azerbaijan the proposals on adaptation of legislation acts to the Law within three months.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree approving the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the field of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and its transportation, signed April 13, 2010 in Bucharest.
According to the decree, the Ministry of Industry and Energy is instructed to ensure the implementation of this memorandum.
The Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan is in charge of notifying the Romanian and Georgian sides of implementation of the internal procedures for the coming into force of the agreement.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev signed an order approving an agreement between the Defence Ministries of Azerbaijan and Tajikistan on education of military people of the Ministry of Defence of Tajikistan at military higher educational institutions of the Ministry of Defence of Azerbaijan, signed on April 14, 2010 in Moscow.
According to the decree, the Ministry of Defence is in charge of implementing this agreement.
The Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan is in charge of notifying the Tajik side of implementation of the internal procedures for the coming into force of the agreement.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on thursday has signed an order of awarding a number of persons with Azerbaijan Republic State Prize in area of science, culture and literature for 2010.
On the basis of proposals from the Commission of the State Prize of the Azerbaijan Republic in area of science, culture and literature State Prizes were awarded to the following persons:
Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev on May 24 sent a congratulatory message to King Abdullah II of Jordan as his country celebrates its Independence Day.
In the letter, President Ilham Aliyev praised "the expanding relationship" between Azerbaijan and Jordan.
The Head of State expressed confidence that "we will further make joint efforts to successfully continue cooperation both bilaterally and within international organizations".
President Ilham Aliyev also wished the King of Jordan "robust health and successes" in his activities and "brotherly people of Jordan peace and prosperity".
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has sent a letter of congratulations to President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili on the eve of his country's Independence Day.
Relations between our nations are based on historically friendly and good neighborhood traditions. We are pleased with the development of our intergovernmental relations - which have strong foundations and are based on mutual trust and support - and the continuous expansion of our cooperation, which has reached the level of strategic partnership," the Azerbaijani leader said in his message.
President Ilham Aliyev expressed confidence that the two countries would continue joint efforts to strengthen their relations and cooperation.
The Azerbaijani leader also wished the Georgian counterpart "robust health and successes" in his activities and "the friendly people" of Georgia peace and prosperity.
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev congratulated Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on Azerbaijan's national holiday - Republic Day.
The successes in the political, socio-economic and cultural spheres ensure steady build-up of Azerbaijan's potential, enhancing its credibility in the regional and international affairs.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev congratulated Nepal's President Ram Baran Yadav on the occasion of national holiday - Day of Republic.
"I congratulate you and all your people on my own behalf and on behalf of the Azerbaijani people on Nepal's national holiday - Independence Day. I am confident that relations between our countries will continuously develop and strengthen in the interests of our peoples," Ilham Aliyev said in his congratulatory letter.
Azerbaijani President expressed good wishes to his Nepalese counterpart and wished peace and prosperity to friendly people.
Azerbaijan President continues receiving congratulations on the Republic Day.
In particular, the congratulatory messages were sent by the President of the Federal Republic of Germany Horst Köhler, the Queen of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Elizabeth II, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari, President of Turkmenistan Gurbangulu Berdimuhamedov, Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Pope Benedict XVI, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev, President of the Republic of Korea Lee Myung-bak, President of India Pratibha Patil, Belgium's King Albert II, Greek President Karolos Papoulias, President of Tunisia Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, President of Malta George Abela, Sultan of Oman Qaboos bin Said, the Leader of Libyan Revolution Muammar al-Qadhafi, President of Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj, Peruvian President Alan Garcia and others.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev expressed his condolences to Pakistani counterpart Asif Ali Zardari in connection with numerous victims of the terrorist act committed in the city of Lahore, AzerTaj state new agency reported.
"We were very shocked hearing the news about the terrorist attack in Lahore, which led to numerous casualties. We are outraged by this tragic event and strongly condemn all acts of terrorism. I express the deepest condolences to you, families and friends of the victims, all the people of Pakistan on my own behalf and on behalf of the Azerbaijani people," a letter said.
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a letter of condolence to President of India Pratibha Devisingh Patil over loss of many human lives caused by the train crash.
"On behalf of myself and people of Azerbaijan, I offer my deep sympathies to You, families of the killed, all the people of India and wish speedy recovery to the wounded and injured," the letter said.
First Lady of Azerbaijan, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, UNESCO and ISESCO goodwill ambassador, MP Mehriban Aliyeva has today met Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Europe Maud de Boer-Buquicchio, who is in Baku to attend the 7th Conference of Ministers responsible for Equality between Women and Men, entitled "Gender equality: bridging the gap between de jure and de facto gender equality".
The First Lady thanked Maud de Boer-Buquicchio for accepting invitation to attend the conference.
Mrs. Mehriban Aliyeva stressed the importance of the conference.
The President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation underlined topicality of the issues to be discussed at the event.
The Deputy Secretary General expressed her satisfaction with visiting Azerbaijan.
She also highlighted the importance of the event.
Azerbaijan`s First Lady, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, goodwill ambassador of UNESCO and ISESCO, MP Mehriban Aliyeva met today with UN Deputy Secretary General Asha-Rose Migiro, who is in Baku to attend the 7th Conference of Ministers responsible for Equality between Women and Men, the AzerTaj state news agency reported.
It was stressed during the meeting that the international event would support gender equality projects in the world.
Touching upon Azerbaijan-UN relations, Mehriban Aliyeva said the Heydar Aliyev Foundation is cooperating with a number of UN agencies. She expressed assurance for further expansion of bilateral ties.
Asha-Rose Migiro expressed gratitude to Azerbaijani First Lady for her contribution to the conference.
Egyptian First Lady Suzanne Mubarak sent a letter to Azerbaijani First Lady, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Goodwill Ambassador of UNESCO and ISESCO, MP Mehriban Aliyeva, AzerTaj state news agency reported.
Suzanne Mubarak is Chairperson of Board of Trustees of the famous Library of Alexandria, Egypt. She said that Mehriban Aliyeva was elected honorary member of the Board of Trustees by unanimous decision of members of the Council.
The Board of Trustees of the Library of Alexandria includes the most authoritative scholars and prominent political figures of the world, AzerTaj state news agency reported.
The Library of Alexandria is a distinctive organization having an international mandate. The library, founded by Egyptian law, is out of the competence of the government and assigned directly to the President. Providing a library with such unprecedented autonomy is based on the broad powers of the Board of Trustees.
Egyptian First Lady Suzanne Mubarak expressed confidence that the high intelligence and experience of Mehriban Aliyeva will help to resolve many issues. She said that she will be pleased with her visit to the library.
Parliamet
An international conference of the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic-speaking countries, dedicated to the 90-th-anniversary of the Turkish Parliament was held in Baku.
"Its main purpose is mutual support of Turkic-speaking countries in international organizations, as well as exchange of experience in the legislative process", Askerov said.
Turkic-speaking States Parliamentary Assembly was also established to preserve the language, culture and history in the Turkic-speaking countries, Askerov said.
Deputy chairman of the Turkish Parliament Nevzad Pakdil said that Turkic States should not lag behind the rapidly evolving world.
"Turkic world, covering the territory from Central Asia to the Caucasus, from the Caucasus to the Balkans is a tree with one root. Language connecting these people is the most important branch of this tree," Pakdil said.
Vice-Speaker of the Turkish Parliament noted the need for cooperation of Turkic states.
"Turkic-speaking States Parliamentary Assembly is the organization, uniting the parliamentarians of our countries. It will help us to build our future", deputy chairman of the Turkish Parliament said.
Head of the Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group Azerbaijan-Turkey Nizami Jafarov condemned the Turkic-speaking countries not included in Turkic-speaking States Parliamentary Assembly. He also put forward a proposal to create a general Turkic alphabet.
The representation of the General Secretariat of the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic-speaking countries has been opened in Baku today.
Chairman of the Azerbaijani Parliament Oktay Asadov met with President of Dagestan Magomedsalam Magomedov in Baku.
"This visit will provide new opportunities for the development of bilateral relations", speaker said.
Political relations between Azerbaijan and Dagestan are at high level, Asadov said.
He also noted the great potential for development of bilateral ties.
Magomedov said that Dagestan is interested in developing of relations with Azerbaijan in all spheres.
There should be created textbooks on general history and literature of Turkic-speaking countries should and they must be taught throughout the Turkic world, Azerbaijani MP Ganira Pashayeva said.
"Creation of textbooks and teaching of a common history and literature of Turkic-speaking countries have great importance," Pashayeva said speaking at the conference "Parliamentary diplomacy - TurkPA" (Parliamentary Assembly of the Turkic-speaking countries) passing in Azerbaijan.
The diasporas of Turkic-speaking countries also should voice one position, as this has a great importance. Their close cooperation with the parliaments of the countries, where they operate is also important, she said.
"I believe that diaspora organizations must keep the Turkic-speaking countries' problems under the review and carry out activities on this topic. In addition, the Turk PA conference should also be conducted in countries, where the Turkic diaspora is strong," Pashayeva said.
It is also important to actively distribute the Turkic-speaking countries' television programs, Pashayeva said. "If it does, then spiritual unity of the Turkic-speaking countries' population will grow and integration in this direction will be accelerated, she added.
The water consumption in Kura river reached 2,500 cubic meters per second, exceeding its maximum level by 1,000 cubic meters per second in recent days, Speaker Oktay Asadov said.
"The state takes all possible measures. This happens all over the world. Poland has been also seriously affected by heavy flooding. The situation is analyzed. There are no grounds for serious concern," speaker said.
MP Nasib Nasibli said that necessary measures to prevent the disaster, despite the marked increase of groundwater level, have not been taken, he said.
MP Rustam Khalilov said that many casualties were avoided due to timely implementation of activities.
"Only one person died. The State has undertaken extensive work to liquidate consequences of disaster," Khalilov said.
MP Panah Husein, in his turn, considers the situation serious. "We need to create a commission to investigate the causes of the disaster. The level of water in the Kura dropped, but flooding continues. Sabirabad is a zone of disaster," Husein said.
The draft law on "Combating domestic violence and protecting of victims of domestic violence" is discussed in the first reading in the Azerbaijani Parliament.
"This law combats negative legal, medical and social consequences that have arisen as a result of domestic violence committed by close relatives or people living or ever lived together. It provides for social protection and legal support for victims of domestic violence, as well as defines and regulates the activities to solve the causes of domestic violence in accordance with international standards", chairman of the Azerbaijani Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights, Rabiyyat Aslanova, said.
She said that the law will apply to family members, close relatives (husband, wife, parents, children, grandparents, grandchildren, sisters, brothers, adopted people and adoptive parents), as well as other relatives, in case of their living together. "The law will be relevant to the husband and wife, divorced and living together or separately, physical entities designated by the trustees and guardians, and those taken to custody and guardianship, men and women living in informal marriages, and families living with people living in informal marriage", chairman of the committee said.
First deputy chairman of the Azerbaijani Parliament Ziyafet Askerov said that according to UN report on violence in 2009, the statistics for domestic violence is as follows: in Slovakia - 67.8, Australia - 48, Finland - 43.5 for every hundred women.
According to the report, about 37 facts of domestic have been registered in Germany, in Egypt - 35, India and Russia - 21, Askerov said. "This figure hits 18 in Turkey, Poland - 18.1, Italy - 18.8, and Azerbaijan - 13.3," vice-speaker said.
MP Siyavush Novruzov said that speaking about domestic violence, it is not quite correct to say that only women face this problem.
Appealing to members of the OSCE and the Council of Europe participating in the meeting of the parliament, Novruzov said that there is a principle of domestic violence even in the parliaments of many European countries.
"We often see that the parliaments of European countries adopt laws on dress code. One can not interfere in people's taste on clothes. Ordinary people are not military men for them to set dress code. It is necessary to respect the rights of people. Azerbaijan is a secular state, living according to Islamic values," Novruzov said.
"The adoption of this law will create conditions for the implementation of positive measures not only for our women, but for the whole of our society," MP Ganira Pashayeva said.
She said that in Azerbaijan every self-respecting man is far from domestic violence.
"I am very glad that we are representatives of a nation that respect ourselves will discuss and adopt this bill today. No one should worry about it. I think that phenomenon sometimes observed in men is abnormal. Why do you emphasize the woman's question? An enormous share of responsibility for domestic violence lies on women not only in Azerbaijan, but throughout the world. Azerbaijan is not an exception in this matter. A huge share of the responsibility for domestic violence lies on women," she said.
Pashayeva would like the law to come into force after its adoption. "This does not mean interfering in the affairs of the family. But we must take into account that domestic violence will turn into the violence in society. There are children in every family. If a child sees that a strong person can press a weak one in the family, he will do the same in the society when he grows up. So it turns out that we do not interfere in the affairs of the family, we strengthen our family tradition. We strengthen our family's tradition by defending human rights. Human rights must be protected ", Pashayeva said.
MP Zahid Oruj said that it is incorrect to talk about family secrets to law enforcement agencies.
"Everyone knows that young families in the first years face some problems. Much should be changed in our traditions. Azerbaijani women have equal rights with men," he said.
A delegation of the Azerbaijani MPs will attend spring session of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly.
"A group of MPs of the Milli Mejlis (Parliament) headed by first deputy chairman of Parliament Ziyafet Askerov will participate in the spring session of NATO PA, to be held in Latvia from May 27 to June 2," the Azerbaijani Parliament said.
The delegation will include MPs Siyavush Novruzov, Malahat Ibrahimgizi and Tahir Suleymanov. "The meeting in Riga will discuss the following issues: the situation in Afghanistan, the Western Balkans, the development of strategic cooperation between NATO and Russia, nuclear safety and anti-missile defense, global climate change, energy security, the consequences of the economic crisis, the elimination of poverty," the Parliament said.
Members of the Azerbaijani delegation will share views on these issues.
Azerbaijani MP Rafael Huseynov is on a visit to Paris to participate in a committee meeting of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE).
"Huseynov will attend the PACE meeting that will discuss issues related to environmental protection and agriculture. The meeting of local and regional committee will discuss the situation with democracy in Venezuela, protection of the environment in the Mediterranean basin, situation of forests and their future and impact of armed conflicts and military waste on the environment," the parliamentary press service reported.
The PACE Legal Affairs and Human Rights Committee's meeting agenda also includes the following issues: human rights violations in the North Caucasus and activities on the legal protection, the fight against extremism and others.
Huseynov will share his views on these issues at the event.
Political parties represented in the Parliament of Azerbaijan sent a letter of protest to the Russian State Duma Chairman Boris Grizlov in connection with the "observation" mission conducted by a group of Russian MPs in the "parliamentary elections" in Nagorno-Karabakh, the website of the ruling New Azerbaijan Party reported.
"There is no need to prove that the elections held in the occupied territories by unrecognized separatist regime are contrary to all norms and principles of international law, can not be considered legitimate," the letter says.
Despite all efforts of the Armenian side, the international community - the UN, OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs, the Council of Europe, the European Union and many countries have not recognized the "elections" which the separatists conduct in Nagorno-Karabakh, the letter to Boris Grizlov said.
"But unfortunately, members of the State Duma of Russia - Igor Chernichenko, Cril Cherkasov, Tatiana Volozhin, Maxim Mishenko, Konstantin Zatulin, as well as a member of the Students' Parliament under the State Duma of Russia Galina Ratnikova, a Russian citizen Viktor Sheynits and Strategic Culture Foundation expert Andrey Areshev illegally entered the territory of our country under the guise of an observer mission, "watching" fictitious "parliamentary elections" in Nagorno-Karabakh, were accomplices of the illegal actions of the separatists," the letter said.
Similar protest letters were sent to heads of parliaments of the Czech Republic, Germany, USA, Iran, Argentina, Slovakia and France.
Elecions
It is expected that women will take active part in the forthcoming parliamentary elections in Azerbaijan, chairperson of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children of Azerbaijan Hijran Huseynova believes.
"We expect women to take active part in the parliamentary elections," she said today.
Fourteen are women of 125 MPs of the Azerbaijani Parliament, which makes 11 percent of MP seats. One of the three vice-chairmen of the parliament is woman. One of the parliamentary committees is chaired by a woman.
Parliamentary elections will be held in Azerbaijan in autumn this year. Previously, the elections were held in November 2005. In Azerbaijan, the parliamentary elections are held by the majority system in 125 electoral districts.
"The last municipal elections in Azerbaijan have demonstrated active participation of women, and it is also expected in the upcoming parliamentary elections" Huseynova said.
The Azerbaijani Association for Civil Society Development prepared a program of activities for the parliamentary elections.
"The program of activities for the parliamentary elections has been established in accordance with the instructions of the OSCE. Its main purpose is to promote civil society. Monitoring of the elections showed progress in the conduct of elections in Azerbaijan", the association vice president Veli Alibayov said during a briefing at the press-center of AMI Trend.
The parliamentary elections will be held in early November. The association observed the previous elections for legislative body.
The organization began preparation for the parliamentary elections in March, the association electoral staff head Maharram Zulfugarli said.
"From June 1, the activity of the Association offices will be coordinated in preparation for the elections. Regional workshops will be held to enhance the activity of the population in the elections. Conducting of trainings for observers is also envisaged. Monitoring will be carried out before the elections, during and after the elections. We will monitor the activities of the Central Electoral Commission. Violations will be displayed in the interim report. This report will be published in early November, " Zulfugarli said.
He said the current format of Azerbaijani electoral commissions, the holding of elections under the majority system are stable for the government. "We believe that it is important to release the commissions from the influence of party monopoly," Zulfugarli said.
The Azerbaijani Central Election Commission (CEC) published the number of voters in the parliamentary elections in 2010.
Based on the submitted lists, there are 4.829 million resident voters, CEC Secretary Natig Mammadov told journalists.
"The preparation of electoral lists was carried out at a high level. The names of non-resident citizens will be included in the lists before the elections," he said.
"Recent natural disasters did not affect the process of compiling the lists," Mammadov said.
The lists have been specified by local electoral commissions since January and were submitted to district election commissions (DEC) Feb.5. The DECs summed up their details and passed them to the CEC April 5.
Foreign policy
The office of the General Secretariat of the Turkic-speaking countries' Parliamentary Assembly (TurkPA) was opened in Baku.
Turkish Vice-Speaker Nevzat Pakdil and Azerbaijani First Vice-Speaker Ziyafet Asgarov have attended the opening ceremony.
Pakdil expressed hope that the Turkic-speaking peoples, who have the same origin, will be even closer, developing cooperation in various fields, in the future.
The Turkish delegation headed by Pakdil visited the Martyrs' Alley, as well as the Alley of Honors to lay a wreath at the tomb of Azerbaijan`s national leader Heydar Aliyev
Pakdil noted the special role of Heydar Aliyev and Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev in the establishment of the TurkPA.
Azerbaijan and Egypt have signed three intergovernmental agreements in Baku, Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Aboul Gheit said during a joint press conference with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov.
The agreements were signed in the field of youth and sport, abolition of visa regime for diplomatic representatives and cooperation between Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy and the diplomatic school of Egypt. The last agreement was signed by Egyptian ambassador to Azerbaijan Sabir Mansur and head of the Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy Hafiz Pashayev.
Speaking about the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Egyptian Foreign Minister said that it is necessary to resolve it peacefully.
"Nagorno-Karabakh conflict must be resolved peacefully, that is, through negotiations, by respecting the interests of all parties, as well as with the participation of the OSCE Minsk Group," he said.
Egyptian minister said that his country supports the territorial integrity of each state in the region. Aboul Gheit also said that he has discussed the possibility of Azerbaijan's joining the UN Security Council with his Azerbaijani counterpart. He stressed the high level of political and international cooperation between countries.
During a meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliev, Egyptian Foreign Minister will give a letter of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. He said it will further strengthen the relations between the two countries.
All elections held in the partner countries of the "Eastern Partnership"- are indicators for a successful cooperation of these countries with the European Union, said European Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy, Stefan Fule.
The democratic elections held in the country for several times consecutively is an indicator of stability in the country, positively influencing factor in cooperation with the EU, said Fule to the journalists on Monday in the Polish city Sopot, where today was held the first informal meeting of EU foreign ministers and partner countries of initiative of "Eastern Partnership".
Inaugurated by the European Union in May 2009 the program "Eastern Partnership" provides an activation of cooperation of EU with eastern neighbours of european unification.
The program, for the implementation of which was allocated 600 million euros, includes Ukraine, Belarus, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia and Moldova.
Initiated by Poland with the support of Sweden "Eastern Partnership", according to the original idea of the authors, had to bring closer the state program members to integrate with the EU.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko plans to soon pay an official visit to Azerbaijan, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Belarus Ali Nagiyev was quoted as saying by BELTA.
"Lukashenko will visit Azerbaijan in the coming days," Nagiyev said at a news conference in Minsk.
He said the visit should provide a major impetus for the further development of Belarus-Azerbaijan relations. Nagiyev said there are no issues in political, economic or humanitarian cooperation that Belarus and Azerbaijan cannot jointly resolve.
Speaking about Lukashenko's forthcoming visit, Nagiyev said the two countries' leaders will discuss a wide range of issues during their meeting. He did not rule out that the presidents will also discuss cooperation in the energy sector. He stressed that Azerbaijan is open for cooperation and ready to participate in various projects, including Nabucco, and Odessa-Brody.
Regarding possible cooperation between Belarus and Azerbaijan in the energy sector, Nagiyev said the countries' experts have already discussed this issue. Representatives of ministries were engaged in talks, he said.
"There are no issues there. The sides must reach an agreement that will be economically beneficial to both countries," Nagiyev said.
Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov received on May 25 the former President of the Belgian Senate and Independent Senator Anne-Marie Lizin, the press service of Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan reported.
During the meeting the sides discussed the situation in the region, the current state of Azerbaijani-Belgian relations, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the process to resolve it, the reaction of the international community to fictitious "parliamentary elections" in Nagorno-Karabakh, especially to the European Parliament resolution, as well as various issues of mutual interest.
Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ramin Mihman-Parast said here on Tuesday that Iran does not recognize 'parliamentary election' in Nagorno-Karabakh, IRNA reported.
According to the report of Foreign Ministry Media Department, the spokesman, who was answering a question concerning Tehran's viewpoint on holding 'parliamentary elections' in Nagorno-Karabakh, said that Iran does not recognize the action.
He denied news concerning attendance of Iranian observers in the 'election' and underlined that nobody has attended the 'election' as observer from Iran.
The Netherlands does not recognize the so-called parliamentary "elections" in Nagorno Karabakh and supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan, the Dutch Foreign Ministry said in a letter addressed to the Azerbaijani Embassy in The Hague.
The FM also expressed confidence in the OSCE Minsk Group in the letter.
President Obama nominated Matthew Bryza (Matthew Bryza) as U.S. ambassador to Azerbaijan, said in a statement posted on the official site of the White House.
Bryza's appointment must be confirmed by the US Senate.
In 2005 Bryza was appointed Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs. In this capacity he was responsible for relations with South Caucasus and Southern Europe, led the U.S. efforts to resolve conflicts in Nagorno-Karabakh, Abkhazia and South Osetia, coordinated U.S. energy policy in the Black Sea and Caspian Sea regions.
In 2006-2009, Matthew Bryza served as U.S. co-chair of OSCE Minsk Group on Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
The post of U.S. Ambassador in Baku has been vacant since the previous ambassador, Ann Derse, left it in connection with the completion of a term, in July 2009.
Now it is difficult to talk about the time of completion of the peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, but the final step will be that the Azerbaijani flag will again fly over Khankendi, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov briefed the media on May 26.
"It needs to hold elections with the participation of the two communities, which should determine the further status within the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan," he said.
According to the minister, he will meet with the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs in early June.
"We will discuss the results of the meeting of co-chairs with Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian, which was held in Brussels in May," Mammadyarov said.
According to him, the Azerbaijani side should discuss with the co-chairs the next step of the negotiation process, but only if the Armenian side agrees with the updated Madrid principles.
Commenting on Barack Obama's nominating Matthew Bryza as an ambassador to Azerbaijan, the foreign minister said that it was approved by the Azerbaijani side, but for Bryza's appointment of an ambassador, certain procedures should take place in the U.S. Senate.
The Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan has received a letter from the Embassy of the Kingdom of Norway concerning the fictitious "parliamentary elections" in Nagorno-Karabakh, the Ministry reported.
The document highlights Norway's support to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan, the belief in peacefully resolving the conflict within the OSCE Minsk Group.
Georgia unequivocally supports the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and does not recognize the so-called "parliamentary elections" in Nagorno-Karabakh, the Georgian Foreign Ministry said.
"The Georgian Foreign Ministry confirms its unequivocal support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity and does not recognize the so-called parliamentary elections held May 23, 2010 in Nagorno Karabakh," a statement said.
"We are deeply convinced that the ongoing peace talks in the region have no alternative and the process must continue with the participation of international individuals, until a final solution necessary to resolve the conflict is agreed," a statement said.
Elections in Nagorno Karabakh were held May 23.
Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Azerbaijan Mohammad Bagher Bahrami congratulated Azerbaijani people and the State on May 28 - Republic Day, a source at the Iranian embassy in Azerbaijan told Trend.
"I express my sincere congratulations to the people and the state of friendly and brotherly Azerbaijan on national holiday May 28 - Republic Day," said Bahrami.
According to the ambassador, the state and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran are willing further development of Azerbaijan in all spheres. Iran has always supported the independence and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, and today Iran is a reliable bulwark in support of these values, the ambassador said.
According to Bahrami, the most reliable foundation of friendly relations between the two countries is the common history and culture, as well as the will of the respected presidents of both countries. "We are observing a confident move forward in our relations. I hope that in the current situation, the potentials will be maximally used for further development of our relations," said Bahrami.
U.S State Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton congratulated Azerbaijani people on it's Republic Day 28 of May.
"On behalf of president Barack Obama and the American people, I extend my warmest wishes to the people of Azerbaijan as you celebrate your Republic Day on May 28. We join you in celebrating your rich history and Azerbaijan's development since regaining independence", U.S Department of State official web-site reported.
"The United States values its partnership with Azerbaijan, which is rooted in mutual respect and mutual interest. We are committed to further strengthening the close relationship between our two countries".
On this day of celebration Clinton wished Azerbaijani people peace and prosperity.
Human rights
Azerbaijani Ombudsman considers that more attention is paid to prisoners' health.
"After the protocol against torture was signed by the Azerbaijani government in 2009, more attention was paid to the health of prisoners in Azerbaijan", Azerbaijani Ombudsman Elmira Suleymanova said during a conference on "Increase of the ombudsman's role as a National Preventive Mechanism in Azerbaijan" in the Azerbaijani Parliament.
Suleymanova said that since that period construction of new detention centers and correctional facilities has been launched. A system of their protection is modernized.
According to the National Program of Human Rights, monitoring are held periodically in correctional facilities. Measures to protect the honor and dignity of prisoners are made.
Chairman of the Committee on Legal Policy and State Building of the Azerbaijani Parliament Ali Huseynov said that changes in the field of human rights have been made since Azerbaijan's getting of independence. Legislation was improved. The international documents were ratified.
Much work in the field of human rights falls to the share of NGOs and other organizations, head of OSCE Office in Baku Ali Bilge Dzhankorel said. He said that national mechanisms should be worked out to improve the protection of human rights.
"The Ombudsman should further strengthen the fight against torture in detention and correctional facilities," the OSCE official representative said.
Gender equality is a great achievement of the 20th century, the First Lady of Azerbaijan, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Goodwill Ambassador of UNESCO and ISESCO, MP Mehriban Aliyeva said on Baku on May 24, addressing the 7th Conference of Ministers of the Council of Europe "Gender equality: equality between de-jure and de facto".
Mrs. Aliyeva said that the process of eliminating inequality between men and women began a long time ago, and the European countries experienced a successful gender policy. Women in the European society participate in all spheres of life - in business, financial sector, military issues.
Baku hosts a conference on gender equality on May 24-25, organized with the support of the government of Azerbaijan and the Council of Europe. The first conference on this topic took place 25 years ago.
The participants of the conference also include Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Europe Maud de Boer-Buquicchio and UN Deputy Secretary General Asha-Rose Migiro.
"I am very pleased that Baku has become home of many international meetings and conferences on important problems and challenges of modern world. This event creates the possibility for constructive dialogue and game solution as well as being valuable opportunity to benefit global experience," Mrs. Aliyeva said.
The First Lady of Azerbaijan thanked the Council of Europe for decision to hold this conference in Baku. "I believe that active position and complex strategy of Azerbaijan as to the issue related to gender equality are the main reasons why this conference is being held in Baku," Mrs. Aliyeva said.
Mrs. Aliyeva said the problem of this conference is of big importance. "Gender equality is the most important part of democratic society. The main achievement of 20th century is that we have managed to change the values and principle guidelines of the society," she said.
Mrs. Aliyeva said despite some progresses, much more should be achieved, and the progress in this regard can be great. She said the 20th century can be regarded as a new stage in the life of women. The number of women working in the municipalities has doubled since 2004. A large number of women are also involved in the spheres of education and health.
According to Mrs. Aliyeva, Azerbaijan is a victim of Armenian aggression, resulting in violation of rights of Azerbaijani citizens, including women's rights, in 20 percent of Azerbaijani territories. The First Lady of Azerbaijan urged the international organizations to keep this issue on the agenda.
Mrs. Aliyeva highlighted the importance and urgency of the problem of domestic violence. "Azerbaijan is not excluded. It is very difficult to get a clear reflection on this issue. It is immoral to use Azerbaijani traditions and mentality to justify the abuse of women in the family. Women have traditionally been much respected in the Azerbaijani society. The woman-mother is the most respected person for the Azerbaijanis," she said.
Nagorno-Karabakh conflict
The Republic of Azerbaijan shares concerns of its international partners about negative effect on the ongoing peace process by the illegal "parliament elections" held in the occupied territories of the Republic of Azerbaijan on 23 May 2010.
"Another attempt by the Republic of Armenia to camouflage its annexation policy and occupation of the territories of Azerbaijan ended with a complete and unavoidable failure. With its deeds the Armenian side misleads no one but its own society. The international community is well aware of the situation in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, as it was indicated just recently in the report on the need for an EU strategy for South Caucasus, adopted by the European Parliament," the foreign ministry said.
The Republic of Azerbaijan shall never accept the fait accompli-based solution, which the Armenian side is trying to impose. The conflict in and around the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan can only be solved on the basis of respect for territorial integrity, sovereignty and inviolability of internationally recognized borders of Azerbaijan, and peaceful coexistence of Armenian and Azerbaijani communities in the Nagorno-Karabakh region within Azerbaijan, fully and equally enjoying benefits of democracy and prosperity.
Azerbaijan once again urges the Armenian side to cease its destructive policies and instead of wasting the precious time to negotiate in good faith with a view to finding a soonest and durable solution to the conflict, based on the norms and principles of the international law, the statement said.
"The 'parliamentary election' in Nagorno-Karabakh should in no way influence the outcome of the process of the conflict resolution," OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Kazakhstan's Secretary of State and Foreign Minister Kanat Saudabayev said in his statement.
The separatist regime held unlawful "parliamentary elections" in Nagorno-Karabakh May 23. Many international organizations, including the Council of Europe, said about the non-recognition of these elections.
Since the OSCE supports the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and does not recognize the independence of Nagorno-Karabakh, the holding of a 'parliamentary election' has no bearing or influence on the process of the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement, Saudabayev said.
I reiterate support for the efforts of the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group on the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and will continue to assist in every way possible the political talks between all the parties within the Minsk process," he said.
The representative of UN Secretary-General on the human rights of internally displaced persons, Walter Kalin, has completed its mission in Azerbaijan, UN official website reported.
Summing up his visit, Kalin noted the efforts of the Azerbaijani authorities to improve the situation of internally displaced persons, but also urged the international community not to ignore the fact that this category of persons holds this status for more than 18 years.
More than one million Azerbaijanis have become IDPs as a result of Armenia's occupation of 20 percent of Azerbaijani territories.
If Armenia accepts updated Madrid principles, it will open large opportunities for new stages, said Azerbaijani foreign minister.
"If the co-chairs make Armenia accept updated Madrid principles, it will open large opportunities. We are waiting for a response from the Armenian president and foreign minister, they will not say either "yes" or "no"," Azerbaijani foreign minister Elmar Mammadyarov briefed the media on May 28.
According to Mammadyarov, he will meet with the OSCE Minsk group co-chairs in early June. "As part of the European trip, I plan to meet with the co-chairs in early June," Mammadyarov said.
Co-chairs continue to work in this regard, the minister said.
May 24, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from areas and positions outside the Ashagi Seyidbayli village in the Fizuli region at 21.00-21.20 and from areas outside the Javahirli village in the Agdam region at 00.20- 00.30 May 25, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.
Further, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from areas and positions outside the Yarimja village in the Tartar region at 01.10- 01.20 May 25, the ministry reported.
The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.
The United Nations (UN) has declared about its non-recognition of illegal "parliamentary elections" held in Nagorno-Karabakh.
"The UN will never recognize the illegal parliamentary elections held in Nagorno-Karabakh", representative of UN Secretary-General on the human rights of displaced people, Walter Kälin, told media in Baku today.
The "parliamentary elections" organized in Nagorno-Karabakh May 23, 2010 are not recognized by the international community, the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe stated.
The separatist regime held unlawful "parliamentary elections" in Nagorno-Karabakh May 23. Many international organizations, including the EU, UN, and OSCE stated about the non-recognition of these elections.
The Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe reiterates its full support to the OSCE Minsk Group and its Co-Chairmen in their efforts towards a settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. It calls on all parties concerned to intensify their efforts to find a peaceful solution to the conflict, in accordance with the commitment undertaken by Armenia and Azerbaijan upon accession to the Council of Europe.
The Organisation of the Islamic Conference deemed the parliamentary elections held in the occupied Azerbaijani territories of Nagorno-Karabakh on 23 May 2010 illegal and in contravention of the Geneva Convention and the resolutions of the UN Security Council, the Organisation of the Islamic Conference and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Similarly, the OIC General Secretariat called on the international community to condemn this process and deem it illegitimate, the site of OIC reported.
The General Secretariat reiterated the constant principled stand of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference supporting the efforts made by the Republic of Azerbaijan towards a peaceful solution to the territory issue on the basis of the relevant international resolutions.
May 25, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire from areas and positions in the nameless heights in the Berd region and Chinarli village to Azerbaijani troops in the Kokhan Nabi village in the Tovuz region at 18:00-18:10; from positions in the Berkaber village in the Ijevan region of Armenia to Azerbaijani troops in the Gizilhajili village in the Azerbaijani Gazakh region at 19:05-19:15, from positions in the Ashagi Seyidahmedli village in the Fizuli region at 22:30-22:50 and from positions in the nameless heights in the Jabrayil region, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.
The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.
The separatist regime held unlawful "parliamentary elections" in Nagorno-Karabakh May 23. In this context, France recalls that she, like the European Union, as well as international community, including Armenia, did not recognize independence of Nagorno Karabakh, the French Foreign Ministry statement said, told Trend in the Azerbaijan Embassy in Paris.
"Currently, conditions for the peaceful settlement of Nagorno Karabakh conflict, acceptable for all parties concerned, the subject of negotiations within the OSCE Minsk Group, under the mediation of three countries co-chairs - France, USA and Russia. In this regard, the elections on May 23 at no circumstances may affect the ongoing process of settlement and determine the future status of Nagorno-Karabakh", - said in the French Foreign Ministry statement.
As noted in the statement France with American and Russian partners, once again reiterates its firm determination to support the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan to achieve a balanced and a negotiated political settlement under the agreement, based on the principles of Helsinki Final Act to refuse the use of force or the threat of territorial integrity, equality and self-determination of peoples.
Lithuania's Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs stated in Vilnius onthe non-recognition of the so-called "parliamentary elections" in Nagorno-Karabakh, and shared the EU High RepresentativeCatherine Ashton's position over the issue, the Lithuanian embassy in Azerbaijan reported.
Earlier High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Catherine Ashton stated that the European Union does not recognise the constitutional and legal framework within which the "parliamentary elections" in Nagorno-Karabakh was held.
May 26, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire from areas and positions in the Paravakar village in the Ijevan region of Armenia to Azerbaijani troops in the Kohna Gishlag village in the Agstafa region at 08.45-08.55; from positions in the Berkaber village in the Ijevan region of Armenia to Azerbaijani troops in the Gizilhajili village in the Azerbaijani Gazakh region at 08.50-08.55, from positions in the Chileburt and Chayli villages in the Terter region at 01.45-02.05 and 02.40-02.55 May 27, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.
The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.
European Union is ready to step up its efforts in support of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict resolution, the President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Durao Barroso said Wednesday after his talks with Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan.
"I have informed President Sargsyan that the EU is ready to step up its efforts in support of the resolution of the conflict notably through the EU-funded programme of confidence building measures such as people-to-people contacts. I hope that President Sargsyan will support this programme", said Barroso.
According to him, during his meeting with Armenian President, they discussed the negotiations on peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
"I hope we will see some progress soon through the ongoing negotiations of the OSCE Minsk Group", he said.
Romania does not recognize "parliamentary elections" organized on May 23 in Nagorno-Karabakh as legitimate, says the press-release of Romanian Foreign Ministry.
"Romania wishes to reiterate its consistent position of refusal to recognize the independence of the Nagorno-Karabakh region", says the statement.
Romanian Foreign Ministry reasserted its support for a peaceful, negotiated settlement of the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh and has urged the involved parties to increase the pace of the negotiations process.
"The Romanian side also wishes to reassert its support to the activity of the Minsk Group of the OSCE, as the sole format for negotiations to determine the future status of the Nagorno-Karabakh region", says the press-release.
May 28, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire from areas and positions in the Yarimja and Chileburt villages in the Terter region at 13:10-13:15 and 14:10-14:20, from positions in the nameless heights in the Goranboy region at 13:30-13:45, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.
The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.