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Weekly political digest (07.06- 12.06.2010)

Analysis Materials 17 June 2010 12:07 (UTC +04:00)

Official chronicle

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received United States Secretary of Defense Robert Gates.

The Secretary of Defense handed over U.S. President Barack Obama`s letter to the Azerbaijani leader.

He said U.S. President Barack Obama remembers with satisfaction that Azerbaijan was the first country he visited as a senator.

The Head of State asked the Secretary of Defense to convey his thanks to the U.S. president for the letter.

The sides exchanged views on military cooperation between Azerbaijan and the United States.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has today headed to Turkey for a working visit.

At the Heydar Aliyev International Airport, the Head of State was seen off by Prime Minister Artur Rasizadeh, Chief of the Presidential Administration Ramiz Mehdiyev and Baku Mayor Hajibala Abutalybov.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Turkish President Abdullah Gul met in Istanbul.

During the meeting, satisfaction with friendly and brotherly relations between the countries in all spheres was expressed.

Significance of high-level meetings was stressed.

Th cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkey in various spheres, including the energy sector, and regional importance of this cooperation were stressed.

It was noted that the contracts signed on natural gas will become a new milestone in the successful development of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkey in the energy sector.

The settlement of Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, bilateral, regional and international issues have been discussed during the meeting.

a meeting has been held between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul, AzerTaj state news agency reported.

Satisfaction with the development of relations between our countries in all spheres was expressed at the meeting. It was noted that signing of documents related to the gas supply, will be a new phase in energy cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkey. The importance of these documents was also noted. The two sides expressed confidence that cooperation in energy and other spheres between Azerbaijan and Turkey will continue to successfully develop.

The views on the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict were exchanged at the meeting.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said that he fully supports Turkey in connection with events in the Mediterranean Sea. He expressed his condolences over the death of Turkish civilians during these events. The President said that Azerbaijan is close to Turkey in this issue.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin in Istanbul on June 8.

"I am very happy to have had a chance to meet with you - on the sidelines of the conference - and discuss common issues and economic, humanitarian relations between our countries. I know that you'll probably touch upon the issues concerning the general situation in the region. We are trying to use all opportunities to undertake additional steps towards developing the bilateral intergovernmental relationship and also normalizing the situation in the region. Therefore, I would like to say once again that I am happy to meet you," Putin said.

"I am sure that we will have very a constructive and friendly meeting, as always. I remember our previous cordial meeting. These meetings have always contributed to developing our relations. Today`s bilateral meeting has a wide-ranging agenda. Naturally, it covers various issues, including economic ties, mutual political activity, humanitarian cooperation, regional problems and resolution of conflicts. We enjoy constructive and fruitful cooperation in all directions of the bilateral relations. As to economic ties, we observe an increase in the bilateral trade. This is a very positive factor. We also see progress in all other fields of the bilateral relations. That is why, I am sure that this meeting will contribute to further expanding our friendly and neighborhood relations," Aliyev said.

The Azerbaijani people are in solidarity with the Turkish people with regards to the attacks on humanitarian convoy in the Mediterranean Sea, which killed innocent civilians, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said in Istanbul on June 8, AzerTAj state news agency reported.

"We strongly condemn this attack and support Turkey," the President said, offering deepest condolences to Turkish brothers and families of the victims.

Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev attends the third summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia, which began in Istanbul on June 8. In his speech, the President thanked the Turkish President Abdullah Gul for his hospitality and excellent organization of this summit. Aliyev also expressed his gratitude to the President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev for his efforts aimed at turning the summit into an important international forum.

Azerbaijan plays its role in the regional cooperation, Aliyev said.
"We are completely sure that the regional cooperation, forecasting and joint activity in the region will reduce the possible risks and help building the forecasted future for our peoples," the President said.

"The security measures in Asia are part of the global security measures. We will not be able to achieve success without complex approach to the security measures," Aliyev said.

"The fight against terrorism must be conducted against all terrorist organizations in the world. The major condition of the success is to unite efforts against terrorism," the President said.

"At the same time, regional cooperation and economic growth will contribute to the security measures in our region. Therefore, Azerbaijan is doing its best to play an important role in the regional cooperation issues," he said.

"Various projects successfully implemented in Azerbaijan create a basis for broad regional cooperation. Especially I want to mention the projects on energy security. At first these projects were launched as pipeline projects, but now they have become example of a very important regional cooperation beneficial for all participants. Azerbaijan is also contributing to the revival of the historical Silk Road, and the railway project, which we are participating in, will unite Asia and Europe, bring welfare to the peoples of the region and make it available to establish a broad transportation junction. In other words, security requires uniting the efforts, economic cooperation and growth may be the way leading to success," he said.

One of the important issues that the President mentioned in his speech was the attitude towards conflict solution.

"Azerbaijan is a victim of the continuing Armenian aggression. The internationally-recognized territories of Azerbaijan have been under the Armenian occupation for almost two decades," Aliyev said. 

"One million Azerbaijanis have become refugees and IDPs as a result of this occupation. 20 percent of our territories are under the Armenian occupation. This situation still continues," the President said.

Azerbaijan has incurred ethnic cleansing policy, Aliyev said. There is no any local resident in the occupied territories. "All buildings, houses, schools, graves of our ancestors, our mosques and historical heritage have been destroyed in those territories," Aliyev said.

"We demand the implementation of decisions and resolutions of international organizations by Armenia," the President said.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has met Ukrainian leader Viktor Yanukovich in Istanbul on Tuesday.

"I hope we will have an active and constructive work in future. Our countries enjoy beautiful history of relations, and our personal ties will play a significant role in future. For us Ukraine is the closest friend and partner, and I believe that we`ll yield good results of our cooperation in the nearest future", said Ilham Aliyev.

"I`m happy to see you. I think that traditional relations between Ukraine and Azerbaijan, our personal friendly ties will create new opportunities, I would say, give impetus to our countries` relations. I`ve come to see you once again and discuss our bilateral relations, in particular trade and economic ones. The fall in trade in 2009, surely, doesn`t correspond to our potential. And now our task is at least restoring the trade. It currently makes 1 billion. I believe we can resolutely increase our trade, at least two-fold, in the nearest future. I`m very happy that your country, esteemed Mr. President, has very stable economy, and this was possible thanks to stability that you`ve had over recent years. I praise the fact that your Gross Domestic Product saw over 9 percent-rise in 2009 which was very difficult year. It is an outstanding achievement. In a short period of time you`ve managed to increase the per capita GDP two-fold, and even more. And I think, surely, the people of Azerbaijan feel it. I believe this contributes to solving many tasks with regard to internal policy, uniting the society and the people. It is very good, it is what Ukraine has lacked for recent years. And we envy you in a good sense of this word. However, I think a new era opened for Ukraine, and it, of course, will have a positive impact on our trade and economic cooperation, and relations between our countries and peoples. I`m happy to see you here today at this wonderfully-organized event. And I hope to see you again in the nearest future in Ukraine", Viktor Yanukovich said:.

Ilham Aliyev thanked Ukraine`s President for nice words about Azerbaijan.

"You are quite right. We got high results in critical 2009. It is pleasant that we have reached it thanks to our existing basis. Our economy have grown by 20 or 25 percent. Our economy is stable and even credit agencies have increased Azerbaijan`s credit rating this year. It shows that we have achieved the diversification of economy and a sustainable growth. You are quite right that the main aspects here are stability - both political and economic - and predictability of the situation, as well as investment potential. Therefore, actually, we want very much that the bilateral economic relations are restored. We are very hopeful for this.

Ukraine is our close friend and partner, strategic partner. We have lived together for long years in the past. We`ve supported each other as independent states. We enjoy personal friendship with you. This friendship has been continuing for years. I am sure that the friendly Ukrainian people will make great achievements under your leadership. I believe that you will ensure development in both industry and economy as you did when you led the government. There are all opportunities, primarily a political will to realize this.

I am happy to meet you again. I am sure that such meetings will happen often in Ukraine and Azerbaijan, and due to stable basis and mutual sympathy of our peoples, we will establish relations based on friendship, mutual interests and factors beneficial to our nations. On my own behalf, I once more congratulate you on being elected a President and winning the confidence of the Ukrainian people. This is a main evidence of attitude to and confidence in you. I am sure that you will justify all hopes", Azerbaijani President said.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met here Iranian leader Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

They praised the relations between Azerbaijan and Iran, saying they were developing in various fields.
The presidents exchanged views over political, economic and energy cooperation.
They also expressed assurance in further development of friendly and brotherly relations between the two countries.

On June 8, the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev gave an interview to Azerbaijani journalists in Istanbul.

The Head of State responded to a number of questions, including the results of his working visit to Turkey, Turkey-Azerbaijan relations, ongoing talks to settle the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and Azerbaijan's energy policy.

Azerbaijan`s territorial integrity will be restored, President Ilham Aliyev said in an interview to Azerbaijani journalists in Istanbul, when asked about peace talks over the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

The Head of State said Armenia has not yet responded to the updated Madrid principles presented by the OSCE Minsk Group.

"Under these circumstances, the mediators should have their say. Azerbaijan has basically agreed with these principles," President Ilham Aliyev said.

"There is no answer from Armenia and I think that mediators should pronounce on that. For how long will Azerbaijan and the mediators wait for the answer?"

He said the updated Madrid principles had been put forward by the three Minsk Group co-chairs. "I hope they will respect their proposals," the President said. "Serious signals should be sent to Armenia, which has been undermining the peace process in the past few months. If we are all interested in continuing negotiations, some steps must be taken."

"If Armenia continues to temporize or officially reject these principles altogether, then Azerbaijan must seriously ponder over the prospects of its participation in the process. We are thinking about this and considering different options and will try to restore our territorial integrity in any way possible way. I personally do not doubt that the country's territorial integrity will be restored... But if Armenia continues to pursue its policy of occupation and simulate negotiations, Azerbaijan will seriously change its position."

President of Turkey Abdullah Gul has today hosted an official dinner in honor of heads of delegations participating in the third summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the dinner.

Heads of state and government Tuesday have had a joint dinner at the Cıragan Palace in İstanbul.

Azerbaijan`s President Ilham Aliyev attended the dinner.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev's working visit to Turkey has been completed today, AzerTaj state news agency reported.

Turkish high-level representatives of state and government saw the Azerbaijani President off in Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport.

On the same day, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev returned home.

Prime Minister Artur Rasizade, head of the Presidential Administration Ramiz Mehdiyev and Head of the Executive Power of Baku Hajibala Abutalibov met the Azerbaijani President at the International Airport named after Heydar Aliyev.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has today inaugurated a newly-reconstructed building for the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population, AzerTaj state news agency reported.

The Head of State first toured the building's premises.

The President got familiar with the conditions created in the building.

The Head of State was briefed about reconstruction work done here.

President Ilham Aliyev offered his congratulations on opening of the ministry's building via a videolink with Nakhchivan, Gusar and Ganja.

Those joining the videolink thanked the Head of State for the attention and care.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has today received European Parliament's Vice-Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs Fiorello Provera.

The Head of State said relations between Azerbaijan and the European Union (EU) marked a new era of development within the EU's Eastern Partnership Program. President Ilham Aliyev highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation between the European Parliament and Azerbaijan's relevant agencies.

The President hailed the resolution of the European Parliament demanding the immediate withdrawal of Armenian occupation forces from Azerbaijan's territories.

Provera said his discussions and dialogues with Azerbaijani government officials and MPs have already become regular.

He expressed assurance cooperation between Azerbaijan and the European Parliament would further develop.

President Ilham Aliyev and first lady Mehriban Aliyeva have today inspected the construction work at a new building of State Museum of Azerbaijan Carpet and Applied Arts, and also visited a site designed for State Museum of Musical Culture, AzerTAj state news agency reported.

Minister of culture and tourism Abulfaz Garayev told the President of the construction work at the new building of the State Museum of Azerbaijan Carpet and Applied Arts. The building is being constructed on the basis of a joint project by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Ministry of Culture and Tourism and UNESCO.

The Head of State made relevant recommendations to carry out the construction work in accordance with modern standards.

Afterwards, the President and the first lady visited the site where the State Museum of Musical Culture would be located. They viewed the draft project of the museum which will be located in "The Venetian town". The construction work will start here next year.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on conscription from July 1 to 30 2010 and transfer to the reserve of military men in active service.

Under the decree, in accordance with the law "On the bases of call to military service in the Republic of Azerbaijan" for recruitment of the armed forces envisaged by the legislation, all citizens of Azerbaijan, who were born in 1992 and reached 18 years, as well as those, who were born between 1975 and 1991 and are less than 35 year-old, which are no right for draft deferment, under the legislation, are called to active military service from July 1 to 30, 2010.

Soldiers, sailors and warrant officers, who completed the term of service under the law "On military service" are transferred to reserve from July 1 to 30 2010.

The Cabinet of Ministers and local executive bodies have been instructed to conduct activities envisaged by the legislation to fulfil the decree.

Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev signed an order approving the agreement between the Government of the Azerbaijan Republic and the Government of Kuwait on cooperation in the fields of sport and youth policy.

According to the decree, the Ministry of Youth and Sports was mandated to implement the agreement, and the Foreign Ministry to notify the Government of Kuwait of the implementation of internal procedures required for entry into force of the agreement.

Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on June 11 to apply the law on making partial change to the administrative section of the territory of Goranboy district and the city of Naftalan of Azerbaijan Republic.

The Cabinet of Ministers is in charge of preparing proposals to bring existing legislation into conformity with the Act and submit them to the President of Azerbaijan. The Cabinet of Ministers should also bring normative acts of the Government and the relevant executive authorities into conformity with this law and inform the President. The Cabinet of Ministers has to resolve other issues arising from this law within its powers.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev sent a letter of congratulation to Portugal's President Anibal Cavaco Silva.

"I sincerely congratulate You and your people on your National holiday- Day of Portugal," the letter says.

The Azerbaijani leader expressed hope that the relations between the two countries will develop in an atmosphere of friendship and cooperation for prosperity of the two nations.

President Aliyev wished Cavaco Silva and his people best regards, prosperity and welfare.

Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev sent a congratulatory letter to the President of the Philippines Benigno Aquino III.

"I sincerely congratulate you on your election as President of the Philippines. I am confident that the friendly relations and cooperation between Azerbaijan and the Philippines will continuously develop and strengthen in accordance with the interests of our peoples," said the letter.

Ilham Aliyev wished Benigno Aquino good health, success in his future activities for the welfare of the friendly people of the Philippines.Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev congratulated Naoto Kan with appointment as Prime Minister of Japan.

"The current level of development of Azerbaijan-Japan relations is encouraging. I hope that our bilateral relations and multilateral ties of friendship, fruitful cooperation in many spheres of mutual interest, will be continuously developed and strengthened in accordance with the interests of our peoples. I wish you sound health, happiness and success in the upcoming activities for the benefit of friendly people of Japan," a message said.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a letter of congratulation to Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev on the country`s public holiday - Russia Day.

The letter says friendly Russia successfully implements large-scale programs on modernization of economy and social sphere and improvement of political system. The country`s prestige increases and positions strengthen in the international community.

According to the letter, Azerbaijan-Russia friendly and neighborly relations based on trust and mutual support are deeply rooted in history.

The President expressed confidence that good traditions, inter-state relations and comprehensive cooperation would continue to develop for the interest of "our peoples, peace and stability in the Caucasus".

President Ilham Aliyev wished the Russian leader robust health, happiness, successes and all people of Russia peace, prosperity and progress.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory message to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on the country's public holiday - Birthday of Queen.

In the letter, the Head of State praised the current level of development of "friendly and cooperative relations between Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom".

The President expressed assurance that "we will continue our efforts towards expanding our all-round relations and deepening cooperation which is of mutual interest".

The Azerbaijani leader wished Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II robust health and successes in her activity and the friendly people of the United Kingdom peace and prosperity.

Parliament

The Azerbaijani parliament discussed a bill on amendments to the Electoral Code this week.

The amendments were proposed earlier by the ruling New Azerbaijan Party at a meeting of the Parliamentary Legal Policy and Nation-Building Committee.

Thirty-three amendments were proposed, including amendments annulling the practice of allocating funds from the state budget to MP candidates, setting a new number of days required before voting to announce the elections (from 75 to 60 days), allowing constituency lists to be approved 55 days before the elections, and permitting the publication of the lists 50 days before the elections, committee Chairman Ali Huseynov said.

According to the proposed amendments, a candidate's registration documents must be submitted at least 30 days before polling day.

Since the adoption of the Electoral Code in 2003, amendments have been made on 10 occasions.

The Azerbaijani Milli Mejlis (Parliament) with participation of MPs and local and international experts holds hearings on the Constitutional Law "On normative legal acts".

According to Chairman of the committee on legal policy and state building Ali Huseynov, the constitutional law will regulate the preparation of legal acts, their formalization, adoption, publication and entry into force, the comments on them and their systematization.

The Venice Commission of the Council of Europe positively assessed the law, the legal framework of the developed countries and international experience were carefully studied during  the preparation of documents, Huseynov said.

Azerbaijani parliament's Legislation Department head Latif Huseynov commented on regulations of the law.

There is no need to place any country's military forces in Azerbaijan's territory, Azerbaijani Parliamentary Security and Defense Committee member Aydin Mirzazade said.

"Based on the military doctrine, which is awaiting adoption, deployment of other countries' military contingents in the territory of Azerbaijan may be only in exceptional situation meeting our national interest," Mirzazade said.

The Azerbaijani parliament is expected to discuss the draft military doctrine. This military doctrine authorizes the deployment of other countries' military contingents in the territory of Azerbaijan.

"If even other countries' military contingents placed in Azerbaijan, this could be only for the short term and specifying their powers and framework of action. There is no need for their deployment now. If it happens in the future, it will cover only limited troops of friendly countries to Azerbaijan and only for a short and specific time. These may be the countries that recognize the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and the countries which will take place in collaboration with Azerbaijan in the struggle against the processes that are contrary to the national interests of our country," Mirzazade said.

Expressing his attitude towards the issue that deployment of other states' troops in the country may damage the national security of Azerbaijan, Mirzazade said that extensive discussions will be held before taking any steps in this direction.

"We will adopt such a decision only after estimation of all positives and negatives regarding the problem that we may face today and in the future. It can not be a hasty step, the consequences of which would not be thought about. This will be possible only after serious discussion and comprehensive thinking. This can only be an exceptional action," Mirzazade said.

The European-Azerbaijan Society Board will meet with Azerbaijani MPs this week.

"We need to apply international law in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Despite the fact that Azerbaijan and Armenia are members of one organization, Armenia is holding 'elections' in the territory of a neighboring country. The UK has the largest investments in Azerbaijan, and must be more interested in Azerbaijan's territorial integrity. The participation of British MPs in the illegal 'elections' negatively affects the negotiation process," MP Asim Mollazade said at the meeting.

During the meeting, the European-Azerbaijan Society Board Chairman, Lord John Laird asked questions relating to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Replying to the questions, MP Rovshan Rzayev said the Nagorno-Karabakh community is waiting for the problems arising from the new Madrid Principles to be addressed.

"Azerbaijan stands for a peaceful resolution to this issue. The rights of the Azerbaijani community in Nagorno Karabakh are being violated," Rzayev said.

The European-Azerbaijan Society was established on the basis of the London Azerbaijan Society in the UK in 2004. In November 2008, the society was submitted to the House of Lords. Given the importance of ongoing projects related to Azerbaijan in Europe, the society decided to open an office in Baku. The European-Azerbaijan Society's main objective is to represent Azerbaijan in Europe as a country with a rich culture and tremendous economic opportunities, to promote Azerbaijan's international relations in European media and political and cultural circles in Europe, to spread the truth about the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict on the international level and to attract attention of the West to this issue.

Tale Heydarov is the chairman of the society.

Adopting of the law on parliamentary elections and political parties was discussed at the meeting of the extraordinary session of the Azerbaijani Parliament.

"I do not think the opposition willing to form electoral commissions on a parity basis, should strive to conduct fair elections. MPs representing the opposition for the last five years have not seen with voters. They do not work with them. They are active only before the elections," the First Deputy Speaker Ziyafat Asgarov said at a meeting today.

At the parliamentary meeting, chairman of the opposition party Umid, MP Iqbal Aghazadeh proposed changes to the Law "Political Parties", Electoral Code. The requirement regarding the formation of electoral commissions on a parity basis came from the opposition parties.

Eight political parties represented in the parliament, want to be represented in the CEC, Speaker Oktay Asadov said.

"I recommend them to meet, agree and make the appeal on the two candidates," Asadov said.

Deputy Speaker Bahar Muradova said that amendments to the law "Political parties" can be discussed only after the parliamentary elections.

The law "Political Parties" must be reviewed again. Taking into account that little time left for the elections, these discussions can be held after the parliamentary elections in accordance with the relation of political parties in the Parliament," Muradova said.

The Parliament of Azerbaijan adopted the military doctrine at its extraordinary meeting on June 8.

The document consists of seven sections and 75 items. The document reflected such issues as national security, military threat in the region, the facts of military aggression, military aggression of Armenia against Azerbaijan, real problems and challenges facing the armed forces of Azerbaijan. The questions of the future strategy of military development, the international military cooperation, military ties, bilateral military treaties and other issues were also indicated there.

The draft military doctrine envisages exceptions concerning the location of foreign military bases on the territory of Azerbaijan. The document says that in case of necessity, Azerbaijan reserves such power.

Armenia is indicated as an aggressor in the doctrine. The issues connected with the state as a result of this aggression and huge risks for security were also reflected in this document. Azerbaijan's priorities in the region were stressed in the project. The draft military doctrine reflected the issues of global crises, violent struggle being waged over energy resources, and support for separatism, etc.

We can not include the name of any country or organization in the Azerbaijani military doctrine due to the fact that it is a document of a defensive nature. But we can conclude the international agreements with them, the First Deputy Speaker Ziyafet Askerov said during the first discussion of the military doctrine at the extraordinary session of the Azerbaijani parliament.

"Azerbaijan has signed agreements on military cooperation with more than 30 countries. The work over a document has been held for six years. Much time was required to take into account all the national interests of Azerbaijan", Askerov said.

Azerbaijani Military Doctrine was submitted for first discussion at the extraordinary session of the Azerbaijani Parliament, held on Tuesday. Some MPs proposed to include the names of the countries and organizations, with which there is close cooperation, in the military doctrine.

The candidacy of Shaiddin Aliyev nominated by the ruling New Azerbaijan Party for a member of the CEC from the ruling party has been approved at an extraordinary meeting of the Azerbaijani Parliament.

Due to death of CEC deputy chairman from the ruling party Svetlana Gasimova, the post remained vacant.

"Armenia does not want to withdraw from our occupied territories, its purpose is to prolong the negotiation process. This military doctrine and issues arising from it are an important factor in bringing to the attention unambiguous and clear information," MP Ganira Pashayeva said during the first discussion over the military doctrine at the extraordinary session of the Parliament.

"The increasing prestige and power of Azerbaijan is seen in the military doctrine. We see in this document all the issues over which we are concerned. One of important moments is that Azerbaijan assesses any attempts of political, military, economic and other support to Armenia and the separatist regime in the occupied territories. This information is not only for Armenia, but also for all those who support it. I hope that during our future activities, a law on occupied territories will be adopted," said Pashayeva.

The military doctrine reflects that if Armenia does not withdraw from Azerbaijan's occupied territories, Azerbaijan will return its occupied lands by force, she said.

"This information is not only for Armenia, but also for other structures. Military doctrine is a document that protects the national interests of Azerbaijan. We must improve the quality of teaching military training at schools to prepare our youth for the army at the highest level. This is not only about boys, and our lands have been occupied, and thus, girls should receive military training skills," said Pashayeva.

If 14 years ago the Azerbaijan-European Parliament (EP) relations were based on the promotion, today our relations are based on mutually beneficial cooperation, Azerbaijani Parliamentary Speaker Ogtay Asadov said at the meeting with the EP delegation led by Italian Senator and EP Foreign Relations Committee Deputy Chairman Fiorello Provera, the parliamentary press service reported.

"Integration into the Euro-Atlantic structures is a priority direction in the country development in its foreign policy. The republic's leadership attaches great importance to developing cooperation with an authoritative international organization such as EP," Asadov said.

The meeting noted that Azerbaijan, which dynamically develops with each passing day, strengthens its position in the energy security of Europe.

During the meeting, Provera described the country's active participation in the EU projects as a significant event for both parties. Referring to the Azerbaijan- Italy relations, he stressed that they have a wide spectrum.

Azerbaijan's military doctrine aims to restore the country's territorial integrity, Parliamentary Security and Defense Committee member Zahid Oruj said.

"The doctrine identifies as threats economic and financial crises, international terrorism and transnational organized crimes," he said. "In the regional context, the doctrine considers as unacceptable individual countries denying territorial integrity, separatism, and the deployment of military bases near the Azerbaijani border."

According to Oruj, 20 percent of Azerbaijan's territory is under occupation, and the doctrine also includes military measures to ensure the country's territorial integrity.

"Azerbaijani citizens have the right to live in a united and cohesive country. Documents of the U.N. and other international organizations ensure them this right," Oruj said.

According to Oruj, the doctrine is in short a classification of military and political risks.

Political movements

Democratic Azerbaijan World Party has adopted an appeal to the presidents of the world, which called on the presidents to unite efforts in combating terrorism, the party chairman Mammad Alizadeh said a scientific-practical conference 'Socio-political aspects of terrorism' organized by the party.

"Today, terrorism turning into a global problem that concerns all of humanity, and no country in the world can fight this evil alone. The purpose of our appeal is to encourage all countries to jointly combat terrorism from a common center. The society merged with the state human rights organizations, must organize a joint struggle against terrorism," Alizadeh said.

Speaking at the conference on "Islam against terrorism", professor of Baku State University, Doctor of Philosophy Asadulla Gurbanov noted that some forces are trying to equate terrorism with Islam.

"Azerbaijan is a victim of terrorism. Armenian terrorist organizations have committed more than 30 terrorist attacks, which killed more than 2,000 Azerbaijanis", Gurbanov said.

Azerbaijani Socialists will take part in the discussion of the position of Socialists and Social Democrats about the prospects of cooperation of CIS countries and the European Union, the Azerbaijani People's Socialists Party said.

Further development of economic cooperation in the post-Soviet space, the creation of independent information sites to reflect the activities of the forum of the CIS member-parties will be discussed at the second meeting of the Coordinating Council of socialist and social democratic parties of the CIS countries in Kiev June 17.

During the meeting, the Azerbaijani People's Socialists party chairman Rovshan Huseynov will hold a separate meeting with chairman of the Socialist Party of Ukraine.

Karabakh Liberation Organization (KLO) wishes to be represented in the Milli Mejlis (Parliament) of Azerbaijan, the KLO chairman Akif Nagi said today.

"Several members of the organization plan to run for elections to Parliament. We plan to nominate mainly from Binagadi district. Due to the fact that the KLO is a social structure, our members put forward their nominations individually. Our main goal in participating in elections is to bring to public attention the fact that the Karabakh issue can be resolved only by military way, " Nagi said.

According to him, he will also nominate for elections.

The Azerbaijani National Salvation Party stated about the work to unite several political parties appealing to the party regarding this issue.

The National Salvation Party Deputy Chairman on Political Affairs Khagani Emin said that representatives of opposition parties stand for the creation of a new alliance that will unite their political efforts. The priority of the new association will be a fight against the monopoly within the opposition, as well as discussion of the problems of Nagorno-Karabakh and South Azerbaijan. He said that the parties' appeal will be considered at the next meeting of political council of the party.

"Since September 2009 we are members of the Union for Democracy. We do not intend to refuse from participation in this association. We are ready to join the new organization, if it is established. There is one condition that it will not become an alternative to" The Union for Democracy " and from a legal point of view, we will not face problems with future participation in the Union. The new structure should be advisory in nature and be as a bridge like the previous "round tables", he said.

Azerbaijan National Independence Party (ANIP) will hold the Tenth Congress in mid-July, the ANIP told Trend.

The decision to convene the congress was adopted at the meeting of political council of the ANIP held June 8. The exact date will be determined at the next meeting.

The meeting of political council discussed the socio-economic and political situation in the country, processes in the region, prospects of cooperation with other political parties, as well as the Turkish-Israeli conflict.

Members of the political council stressed the importance of the Azerbaijani gas's entry into the world markets via Turkey for Baku and for Ankara.

Expressing concern over the sharp deterioration of the Turkish-Israeli relations, the political council hoped for resolving the conflict between these countries in the near future.

The parliamentary elections will seriously affect some opposition leaders' moving away from politics, the Azerbaijani opposition party chairman said.

"Today, only few representatives of the opposition camp participate in politics. There are only their names. But they have no relation to policy. The rest create a semblance of activity. The parliamentary elections will seriously affect some opposition leaders' moving away from politics," Civil Solidarity Party chairman, MP Sabir Rustamkhanli said.

Rustamkhanli believes that it is impossible to remain in politics, by suffering defeats and doing nothing. "Whether we like it or not, time will tell. Therefore, there is estrangement from politics," Rustamkhanli said.

He said that politics is not confined to meetings with a limited number of its supporters, organizing of a picket or a meeting with foreign guests or representative of the embassy of any country.

"Strong political activity envisages the possibility and ability of the Party to speak on behalf of the country in the international arena, play a role in the socio-political life of the republic", Rustamkhanli said.

Represented in the Union for Democracy, the parties are preparing an appeal to diplomatic missions, the chairman of the Union's electoral headquarters Ahmed Oruj said on June 10.

"At the meeting held on June 9, the election headquarters of the Union for Democracy decided to establish links with the embassies of Western countries and cooperate with them in a coordinated form during the election process. In this regard, an appeal is prepared to the diplomatic missions," said Oruj.

Union for Democracy was founded by the opposition Classic Popular Front Party, Azadlig party and National Democracy Party after 2005 parliamentary election. Great Azerbaijan Party joined the union in early Sept. 2008 and People's Party - in Nov. The Union is advisory and cooperation body.

Green Party of Azerbaijan can join the opposition bloc, the party chairman Mais Gulaliyev told Trend.

"The decision to join the party to any opposition bloc or its independent activity will be taken at a meeting of the Management Board of the Party in late June", he said.

The Green Party intends to nominate 10 candidates for parliamentary elections, the party leader said.

"Our candidates will be nominated mainly on the electoral districts of Baku", he said.

Elections

The Azerbaijani parliament discussed a bill on amendments to the Electoral Code this week.

The amendments were proposed earlier by the ruling New Azerbaijan Party at a meeting of the Parliamentary Legal Policy and Nation-Building Committee.

Thirty-three amendments were proposed, including amendments annulling the practice of allocating funds from the state budget to MP candidates, setting a new number of days required before voting to announce the elections (from 75 to 60 days), allowing constituency lists to be approved 55 days before the elections, and permitting the publication of the lists 50 days before the elections, committee Chairman Ali Huseynov said.

According to the proposed amendments, a candidate's registration documents must be submitted at least 30 days before polling day.

Since the adoption of the Electoral Code in 2003, amendments have been made on 10 occasions.

OSCE supports providing more opportunities to candidates in the elections, OSCE Baku Office Head Ali Bilge Cankorel said commenting on the changes that will be made to the Electoral Code of Azerbaijan.

He said in connection with the elections meetings with political parties and representatives of the power will be held.

"It is important to provide candidates with more opportunities in the elections. In connection with changes to the Electoral Code relevant meetings will be held, at which reasons for the changes will be clarified" Cankorel said.

The amendments were proposed earlier by the ruling New Azerbaijan Party at a meeting of the Parliamentary Legal Policy and Nation-Building Committee.

Thirty-three amendments were proposed, including amendments annulling the practice of allocating funds from the state budget to MP candidates, setting a new number of days required before voting to announce the elections (from 75 to 60 days), allowing constituency lists to be approved 55 days before the elections, and permitting the publication of the lists 50 days before the elections, committee Chairman Ali Huseynov said.

One of the amendments is related to the formation of district electoral commissions at least 50 days before the election. The amendments include reducing the time for specifying voter lists in paragraphs of the electoral commissions.

According to the proposed amendments, a candidate's registration documents must be submitted at least 30 days before polling day. Since the adoption of the Electoral Code in 2003, amendments have been made on 10 occasions.

After discussions in the committee the bill "On making additions and amendments to the Electoral Code" was offered to be submitted to the Parliament.

Foreign policy

The U.S. President Barack Obama in a letter handed by the U.S. Defense Minister Robert Gates to President Ilham Aliyev today thanked Azerbaijan's leader for support in Afghanistan and said he wants to "broaden and deepen" U.S. ties with Azerbaijan.

"The United States recognizes Azerbaijan's important contributions to regional and international security," wrote in the letter published by the Reuters Agency. "It is my hope that we will be able to broaden and deepen our relationship in the months and years ahead," Obama wrote. 

Obama praised Azerbaijan's commitment to efforts to resolve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, mediated by the United States, Russia and France, and warned against using force. "I believe that a peaceful resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is essential for the long-term stability of the South Caucasus region, and support for this outcome will remain a priority for the United States."

Obama praised Azerbaijan for sending military personnel to serve in Afghanistan and opening its land and air space to help resupply U.S. and NATO forces there.

"Azerbaijan's leadership in the development for a Southern Corridor for energy has also increased regional prosperity and enhanced global energy security," Obama wrote.

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates Sunday noted the value of Azerbaijan's participation in the Afghanistan war effort, U.S. Department of Defence official website reported.

"Clearly, the ability to overfly Azerbaijan [and] the ability to use ground transportation through Azerbaijan - as with Russia, and as with Kyrgyzstan - is obviously important. These transit systems are an important contribution to an international effort involving dozens and dozens of countries", he said speaking with reporters today while en route to Azerbaijan from Singapore.

This is the secretary's first visit to Azerbaijan and the first visit by a U.S. Cabinet member in five years. Sunday he met with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and handed over U.S. President Barack Obama`s letter to him. On Monday he is to meet with Azerbaijani Defense Minister Col. Gen. Safar Abiyev.

Part of the reason for his visit, Gates said, is a perception on the part of the Azerbaijani government that the United States is not paying enough attention to the country, given the importance of its contributions.

"I wanted to come through and meet with President Aliyev and reassure him that's not the case," Gates said. "I think there's going to be other visits [between U.S. and Azerbaijani officials] in the future. ... It's important to touch base and let them know that, in fact, they do play an important role in this international coalition."

About 25 percent of the coalition's supplies bound for Afghanistan pass through what's known as the Caucasus Spur, which includes Azerbaijan. Since 2001, tens of thousands of flights for the war effort in Afghanistan have passed through Azerbaijan's airspace, a senior Defense Department official speaking on background told reporters, and about 100,000 troops have flown through Azerbaijani airspace in the past year en route to Afghanistan.

The European Parliament (EP) intends to expand cooperation with Azerbaijan in the framework of the partnership at a high level, Italian Senator and EP Foreign Relations Committee Deputy Chairman Fiorello Provera told journalists in Baku today.

The European Parliament delegation started its visit to Azerbaijan on Tuesday.

The visit's aim is strengthening ties between the European Parliament and Azerbaijan, as well as with other countries in the region, Provera said.

He also noted that the European Parliament stands for resolving the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict within the principles of conservation of the old borders and peacefully.

After his visit to Baku, U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said the trip will positively impact Azerbaijani-U.S. relations, the Pentagon website reported. 

"We will have further bilateral talks on defense next month, which, I hope, will make more concrete much of what we have already discussed," Gates said.

During his visit, the sides discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation in the military sphere, U.S. assistance to guarantee security in the Caspian regions, as well as issues relating to Iran and Russia and the increasing number of joint military exercises and intelligence data-sharing.

"At the meetings, the Azerbaijani side expressed concern about the lack of progress in the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement," Gates said. He, in turn, promised to inform Secretary of State Hillary Clinton about the issue. 

the eighteenth anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan is marked. Now it experiences a new phase of rapid recovery, Azerbaijani Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador to Turkmenistan Vahdet Sultanzade told Turkmen media.

"The establishment of diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan, which are two identical in spirit, having common historical development, ethnic and linguistic affinities, is sure to represent a landmark milestone in the centuries-old relationship between our brotherly peoples", the diplomat said.

He said that the Azerbaijani-Turkmen relations experience a new stage of rapid recovery now.

"The common interests of two countries that support the positions and initiatives of each other in international affairs and influential international organizations is confirmed daily and hourly," he said.

This community is clearly demonstrated by the existence of a number of important agreements in the field of education, cooperation in the field of transport, activities of the Azerbaijani-Turkmen intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation, the diplomat said.

Vahdet Sultanzadeh also quoted President Ilham Aliyev. He said that we as two independent states fully realized our full energy potential. Those investments and projects which we have implemented, ensure now and will ensure a happy future for our peoples for many more decades.

The article stressed "the continuing importance of friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan for the entire region of Central Asia, Caspian Sea, the Caucasus."

Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu held separate meetings with the Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Elmar Mammadyarov, Foreign Minister of Lithuania Vigaudas Usatskas, Foreign Minister of Thailand Kasit Phirom and Foreign Minister of Bangladesh Dipu Moni in Istanbul on Tuesday, Anadolu Agency reported.

Davutoglu's meetings with the foreign ministers took place within the framework of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA).

Relations between Azerbaijan and the U.S are not as good as they could be, the U.S analytic center Stratfor president, professor George Friedman said.

"The U.S. is concerned about many other issues. It has no opportunity to deal with this issue thoroughly [the issue of Azerbaijan-U.S relations]. But the United States is grateful to Azerbaijan for assistance in Iraq and Afghanistan. The U.S. will attach greater importance to the regional issues that are important for Azerbaijan in future," he told media in Baku.

He said that the U.S. does not pay enough attention to the U.S-Azerbaijan relations, as it is engaged in such issues as the crisis between Turkey and Israel, Iran, Afghanistan. But the United States does not forget about its real partner.

Answering the question about the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Friedman said that the U.S. does not clearly understand the situation with the occupied Azerbaijani territories and Nagorno-Karabakh.

"Unfortunately, the U.S. also can not fully appreciate the importance of Azerbaijan", he said.

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates's visit and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's expected visit to Baku is connected with the important role of Azerbaijan as an energy-rich country, and geopolitical location in the region, the U.S analytic center Stratfor president, professor George Friedman said.

Friedman said that the U.S. will continue to strengthen relations with Azerbaijan.

"The U.S. has no specific position on Azerbaijan because, given the structure of the region, all depends on the U.S relations with Russia, Iran and Turkey," Friedman told media.

United Arab Emirates Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Tariq Ahmed Al-Hidan and his Azerbaijani counterpart Khalaf Khalafov signed a memorandum abolishing the visa regime for diplomats during Hidan's recent visit to Baku, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry reported.

The parties also discussed the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and stressed their commitment to resolving the conflict while observing Azerbaijan's territorial integrity and sovereignty.

During the talks, both sides expressed their satisfaction with their bilateral cooperation within international organizations. They also noted the rapid development of political ties, and stressed Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev's visit to the UAE in 2006 as a new stage in their relations.

The official also discussed methods to increase oil and gas, renewable energy, agriculture, health and education cooperation.

The Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and the Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov held a telephone conversation, the Foreign Ministry said.

During the conversation the sides discussed urgent issues of the Russian-Azerbaijani relations and exchanged views on several issues of the regional agenda of mutual interest.

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov received new Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Austria to Azerbaijan Silvia Mayer Kaibic, the foreign ministry said.

Austrian diplomat delivered copies of her credentials to Azerbaijani foreign minister and expressed satisfaction with the appointment as ambassador to our country. While noting the broad potential for promoting cooperation in various fields between our two countries, she stressed that she will make efforts to intensify Austria-Azerbaijan relations.

Mammadyarov, in his turn, congratulated Austrian diplomat with appointment as ambassador in our country, and wished her every success in her work.

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov received a delegation from the United Arab Emirates, headed by Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, Tariq Hida, the press-service of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry reported.

The guest expressed his satisfaction with participation in the first political consultations of the foreign ministries of the two countries and mentioned the high level of relations between the UAE and Azerbaijan.

In his turn, Mammadyarov stressed that Azerbaijan's relations with the Persian Gulf countries are developing, and noted the importance of exchanging experiences between Azerbaijan and the UAE in the field of energy, rational use of energy sources, alternative energy development, the use of oil revenues. The two sides exchanged views on various issues of mutual interest.

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov received a delegation headed by EP Foreign Relations Committee Deputy Chairman Fiorello Provera, the press service of Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said.

During the meeting, the guest noted that the rapid development of Azerbaijan, a modern and secular country, provides additional opportunities to develop relations with European countries.

Mammadyarov expressed satisfaction with Provera's next visit to Azerbaijan and appreciated European Parliament's resolution "EU strategy in South Caucasus" adopted May 20, which supports Azerbaijan's territorial integrity. Mammadyarov said that he supports intensifying efforts of the international community to stop the aggressive policy of Armenia, in particular calls for the impossibility of maintaining the status-quo in the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict, which the resolution adopted on May 20 also requires.

Provera assessed the forceful change of borders of sovereign states in the 21st century as an unacceptable violation. The sides exchanged views on energy, trade, and on various issues of mutual interest.

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov received new UN Resident Coordinator in the country Fikret Akcuran.

Akcuran noted the wide potential of multilateral cooperation between the UN and Azerbaijan. He expressed willingness to work hard towards realization of the organization's programs in the country, the ministry reported.  

Mammadyarov congratulated Akcuran on his appointment as the UN Resident Coordinator and wished success in his work.

Resolution of the Iranian problem by means that may lead to disastrous consequences and escalation of tension is unacceptable for Azerbaijan, Ruling New Azerbaijan Party (NAP) Deputy Chairman and Executive Secretary Ali Ahmedov  told journalists today. He commented on the adoption of a new resolution against Iran by the UN Security Council.

"Being a peace-loving country, Azerbaijan supports the resolution of problematic and contentious issues peacefully through negotiations. Solution of the Iranian problem by other means is unacceptable for Azerbaijan," Ahmedov said.

Ahmedov said Iran and Azerbaijan are not just neighboring countries. The two states share common historical roots, he said.

Ahmedov expressed hope that in making further decisions on the Iranian issue common sense will prevail to avoid tensions in the region.

Human rights

Director of Center for Strategic Studies (CSR) under the Azerbaijani President Elkhan Nuriyev today has met with the OSCE Baku Office head Ali Bilge Cankorel, the Center said.

During the meeting, Nuriyev informed Cankorel on the activities of CSR, implemented projects, as well as the Centre's role in the development of civil society in Azerbaijan.

Cankorel during the meeting stressed that the prevalence of democratic values in society is the main priority of the OSCE. He said that he will provide the necessary support for the development of civil society in Azerbaijan.

The meeting also discussed the obligations of the OSCE Minsk Group in the settlement of the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, regional security issues.

Nagorno-Karabakh conflict

June 6, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from areas and position near the Tapgaragoyunlu village and the nameless heights in the Goranboy region at 12.00-12.45 and 16.30- 17.30, as well as from the positions near the Chilabort village in the Tartar region at 05.00 - 05.10 June 7, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry told Trend.

The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.

Any interference or pressure on one side of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is very risky. Russia would not like Azerbaijan and Armenia to say that they are being pressed, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said at a joint press conference with his Turkish counterpart Recep Teyipom Erdogan today, TRT channel reported.

"Not only one side bears responsibility while resolving of such conflicts. Officials of both countries must discuss this issue and continue a dialogue", Putin said.

He said that a solution to the conflict which would be accepted by both parties must be achieved. "Other countries in this issue can act only as mediators. Patience is required, because the issue is very difficult," Prime Minister said.

Putin said that Azerbaijan and Armenia must resolve the conflict themselves. Russia and other countries are ready to provide them with necessary assistance.

"We can not compel the parties to make a decision. We can not put pressure on them", Putin said

June 7, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from areas and positions outside the Talish village in the Tartar region at 17.50- 18.35, as well as from the positions near the Sarijali village in the Agdam region at 23.30- 23.40, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry told Trend.

The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Grigory Karasin met with Deputy Secretary of State Philip Gordon in Geneva May 7. Both sides exchanged their views on the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh and Transnistria conflicts, as well as the situation in Central Asia and Afghanistan, the Russian Foreign Ministry reported.

The situation in the Caucasus, progress and prospects in the Geneva talks, and the non-use of force were discussed during the meeting. The Russian side stressed the urgent need to apply the non-use of force, particularly through the adoption of unilateral declarations on Abkhazia, Georgia and South Ossetia.

June 8, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from areas and positions near the Gulustan village in the Goranboy region at 15.45-16.30, as well as from the nameless heights in the Khojavend region at 19.34-19.40, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry told Trend.

The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.

The number of Azerbaijani prisoners and hostages, as well as missing people held in Armenia is 4,090 people.

About 3,297 people are military men, 787 people - civilians, a report published on the website of the Azerbaijani State Commission on Hostages, POWs and Missing People said.

There is no information about six people belonging to civilian or military people.

There are 48 minors (17 girls), 252 women, 353 elderly people among missing civilians.

The state commission has the information and eyewitnesses' testimony regarding the fate of 783 missing people.

About 1,397 prisoners and hostages were released. About 343 women, 1,054 men, 169 children (65 girls), 289 elderly people (112 elderly women) were among them.

As a result of the investigation conducted by a working group of the state commission in 2010, there was information about the fate of 47 people. Their names were removed from the list of missing people. According to investigations, about 15 people survived in the battles, 17 people were killed in battle (their bodies were identified and buried), three people among 12 remaining on the list were missing outside the conflict zone.

During the analysis received by the State Commission, it was reported that 553 hostages were killed or died due to some reasons. About 104 of them are women, 448 - men, 137 - only names are known, 74 - people are not identified.

June 9, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from areas and positions outside the Tapgaragoyunlu village in the Goranboy region at 20.20- 20.25, as well as from nameless heights and from position near the Kurapatkino village in the Khojavand region at 22.20- 22.25 and 22.40-22.25, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry told Trend.

Further, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from areas and positions near the Giziloba and Chayli villages in the Tartar region at 00.00-00.16 and 00.30-00.50 June 10, the ministry reported.

The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.

June 10, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from areas and positions near the Kuropatkino village in the Khojavend region at 07.00-07.10 and 23.50-00.35, from nameless heights in the Goygol region at 13.00-13.25 and 22.40-22.25, as well as from position near the Garagashli village in the Agdam region at 23.50-00.00, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry told Trend.

Further, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from areas and positions in the nameless heights in the Tartar region at 03.00-03.15 June 11, the ministry reported.

The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.

On June 11, the Armenian Armed Forces opened fire at Azerbaijani troops from nameless heights in the territory of Goranboy region from 15.30-15.45 and 15.40-15.55, in the territory of Hojavand region from 12.05-12.25, 14.00-14.15, 18.00-18.25 and 20.00-21.30, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.

The Azerbaijani troops answered their fire. No causalities were reported.

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