News
Azerbaijan takes its UN Security Council seat
2012-01-18
The UN Security Council (UNSC) held its first working session for 2012–13 on 3 January, attended by five new non-permanent members, including Azerbaijan, all of which were elected during the General Assembly in October 2011. Each non-permanent member sits for a two-year period.
Agshin Mehdiyev, Azerbaijani Permanent Representative to the UN, told ITAR-TASS that: "Azerbaijan plans to be actively involved in all processes taking place at the UNSC, in developing and making decisions, and participating in committees and working groups."
Reiterating that Azerbaijan is a member of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation and the Non-Aligned Movement, Mehdiyev stated that: "Azerbaijan has its position on many issues of the UNSC agenda. If this coincides with those of other countries at some point, then it is great. If not, then we have our principles and we are not going to disavow these."
Mehdiyev revealed that Baku would insist on the necessity of upholding the UNSC resolutions on the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. He expressed the hope that: "Azerbaijan’s increased authority in the international arena and its membership to the UNSC will play a positive role in resolving the conflict."
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Franco-Turkish relations sink to a new low
2012-01-18
The vote in the French National Assembly that makes it a crime to deny that the mass killing of Armenians in 1915 constituted ‘genocide’, punishable with a year of imprisonment and a maximum fine of €45,000 (£37,237), has seriously impacted the Franco-Turkish relationship. The law awaits final ratification by the French Senate in the coming months. Following the move, Ogtay Asadov, Speaker, Milli Majlis (Azerbaijani Parliament) stated that he would appeal to the French Senate, asking them to reject the bill. He also asked Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan to denounce the bill which, with Azerbaijan and Turkey, comprise the Turkic-Speaking Countries Parliamentary Assembly (TÜRKPA).
The move marks the culmination of a decade-long debate. In 2001, the French parliament passed a bill recognising the 1915 killings as constituting "genocide", since when there have been several attempts to penalise denial of this. In 2006, although the National Assembly passed a bill, the French Senate blocked this with assistance from Nicolas Sarkozy, who was Mayor of Neuilly-sur-Seine at the time. However, in 2007, the year of his Presidential election, Sarkozy promised to adopt the document by the end of his term. Moreover, with the French economy in trouble, escalating unemployment and popularity at 34 per cent, just four months before an election, Sarkozky is desperate to improve his ratings and requires votes from nearly a million Franco-Armenian citizens.
President Abdullah Gül subsequently requested the immediate withdrawal of French membership from the OSCE Minsk Group, of which it is a Co-Chair. This is tasked with mediating a solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. These comments were reiterated by Allahshükür Hummat Pashazadeh, Grand Mufti of the Caucasus, who stated: "Adoption of this decision calls into question the fate of peaceful settlement processes across the Caucasus, which are of vital importance. This decision by France, an OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair, harms its international authority, and deprives us of confidence in its fair position."
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UPDATE: Azerbaijani outcry over French Parliament’s ‘Armenian Genocide’ bill
2012-01-24
On 23 January, Azerbaijan denounced the French Senate’s ratification of a law that makes it illegal to deny that the mass killing of Armenians in 1915 by Ottoman Turkey constituted ‘genocide’ as "anti-democratic".
The statement by the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry continued: "The Republic of Azerbaijan deplores the law adopted by the French Senate to criminalise the denial of the ‘Armenian genocide’, and strongly protests over this. The move is against the principles of democracy, human rights, freedom of speech and expression."
Ali Ahmadov MP, Executive Chairman, New Azerbaijan Party, commented: "Any step against Turkey is also against Azerbaijan either directly, or indirectly. The bill passed in France on the so-called ‘Armenian genocide’ affects the interests of Azerbaijan. The passage of such an absurd and groundless bill means that France openly introduces itself as the defender of Armenia. It should not be forgotten that France must have a neutral position as a Co-Chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, tasked with achieving resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. But it fails, or does not want to do this. France’s behaviour as the lobbyist of Armenia’s interests means betrayal of his mediation mission."
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Switzerland requests historical investigation of Armenian claims
2012-01-18
Micheline Calmy-Rey, Swiss Foreign Minister, and President, Swiss Federation, has urged Turkish and Armenian historians to investigate the mass killing of Armenians in 1915. In her keynote speech at the Fourth Annual Ambassadors’ Conference in Ankara, she recommended that academics from both sides should investigate the Armenian allegations. Calmy-Rey continued: "The historians would then contribute to discussions with their findings." She went on to explain that Swiss laws do not acknowledge any incident as constituting ‘genocide’, unlike France.
Calmy-Rey recalled that Switzerland had mediated between Turkey and Armenia from 2007–09, in an attempt to establish diplomatic relations, open their borders, and establish sub-committees to investigate the 1915 events. In another session, Ahmet Davutoǧlu, Turkish Foreign Minister, replied that Turkey is ready to confront its history, stated that this should be handled objectively, referring to tragic losses on both sides during World War I. He urged that historians should discuss Turkish-Armenian history in an intellectual environment with open archives. He also commented that resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict would unblock the normalisation process between Turkey and Armenia, resulting in enduring peace.
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The roots of the Armenian Question
2012-01-18
The systematic migration to the Caucasus and protection of Armenians under the Tsarist Russian Empire is generally recognised as the genus of the ongoing Armenian-Azerbaijani Conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. However, much of the documentary evidence behind this policy has remained enshrined in secrecy and stored in Russian archives throughout the Tsarist and Soviet periods.
However, TEAS has now accessed many previously unpublished documents from the Russian State Historical Archive, St. Petersburg, and the Russian State Military History Archive, Moscow and published these in a triple-volume set of books entitled The Armenian Question in the Caucasus: Russian Archive Documents and Publications. Comprising facsimile texts, with English commentaries, these invaluable books serve to substantiate the Azerbaijani position from an historical perspective.
The UK launch of The Armenian Question will take place on 6 February at St. James’s Hotel and Club, 7–8 Park Place, St. James’s, London, SW1A 1LS at 19.30hrs. This will comprise a short presentation by renowned Caucasus expert Professor Tadeusz Swietochowski, Monmouth University, USA, who will outline the importance of the texts. Following this, free copies of the books will be available, together with refreshments. To register your attendance, please e-mail editor@teas.eu.
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Ireland pledges to resolve conflicts as OSCE Chair
2012-01-18
As Chair of the OSCE during 2012, Ireland has pledged to address protracted conflicts, and strengthen co-operation between the 56 OSCE States, amongst other objectives, according to Irish Deputy Prime Minister Eamon Gilmore, OSCE Chairperson-in-Office. He continued: "The world is facing unprecedented security challenges, and the multilateral co-operation made possible by the OSCE is now needed more than ever. Ireland is committed to upholding core OSCE values, promoting peace, security and respect for human rights and the rule of law in the Euro-Atlantic and Eurasian region.
"Ireland will seek to build on this momentum through the supporting existing processes, including the OSCE Minsk Group on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. We will draw on our own experience of conflict resolution in the context of the Northern Ireland peace process to advance these processes and facilitate engagement by all parties."
Pádraig Murphy, former Irish Ambassador to Moscow, will be the Co-Chair of the Geneva talks as the OSCE Special Representative for the South Caucasus. He acknowledged: "Ireland’s chairmanship faces a lot of challenges." His brief will include the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
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Armenian and Azerbaijani Presidents to meet in early 2012
2012-01-18
In his final press conference as French OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair, Bernard Fassier has revealed that Azerbaijani President Aliyev and Armenian President Sargsyan will meet to negotiate a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict at the beginning of 2012. He recalled that the meeting had been requested during the OSCE Ministerial Council in December last year, and stated: "We urge the parties to continue negotiations in order to achieve results."
He explained that the negotiation process remains complex, as it is challenging to obtain the consent of the conflicting parties to any of the mediators’ proposals. Fassier underscored that the Basic Principles remain an essential tool in obtaining resolution, and noted the importance of regular visits to the occupied territories by the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs. He continued: "Unfortunately, our hopes for the Kazan meeting in June between the Presidents of Azerbaijan, Armenia and Russia proved ineffective. But we must be optimistic that there will be progress in the negotiations."
During a farewell visit to the region, Fassier met Azerbaijani President Aliyev; Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister; and Allahshükür Hummat Pashazadeh, Grand Mufti of the Caucasus.
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New IDP residence opened in Agjabadi
2012-01-18
On 24 December, his 50th birthday, Azerbaijani President Aliyev visited a new block of residential buildings, constructed to house internally-displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees in the Agjabadi region. Ali Hasanov, Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister, who also serves as Chief of the State Committee for Work with Refugees and IDPs, explained that refugee camps have now been closed in the region, and that the new development comprises ten five-storey residential buildings, housing around 560 people. According to Hasanov, 70 settlements have now been built for refugees and IDPs across the country. During the past seven years, Azerbaijani President Aliyev has signed 27 orders and decrees aimed at improving the conditions for these casualties of the conflict.
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MEPs visit Agdam
2012-01-18
During their trip to Azerbaijan, Dominique Riquet and Philippe Boulland, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), visited the Agdam region. The MEPs met Zulfu Gasimov, Deputy Head, Agdam Region, who briefed them on the problems of IDPs and refugees. The MEPs expressed regret over the lack of success by the OSCE Minsk Group, and went on to view a film entitled Caucasian Hiroshima, featuring views of Agdam before and after the occupation by Armenia. During a press conference, they stressed the need for immediate, peaceful resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
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Hasanov condemns ‘indifference’ of international community
2012-01-18
In an interview to AzerTAc, Ali Hasanov, Head, Social and Political Department, Azerbaijani Presidential Administration, remonstrated: "The main reason that the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh has lasted more than 20 years is the indifference of the international community to Armenia’s destructive position. Nevertheless, we will try to eliminate the double standards and indifferent attitude to the international legal norms at every opportunity."
He continued: "One of the main reasons that Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement has been delayed is attributable to the insipid position and double standards of the UN. For example, NATO and the leading countries fulfilled the UN Security Council’s (UNSC) resolution on Libya within one day. But they do not solve the Nagorno-Karabakh issue, which has continued for many years." Hasanov stated that, as a member of the UNSC, Azerbaijan would regularly include this issue on the agenda.
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Azerbaijan casts doubt over French OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairmanship
2012-01-18
Members of the Milli Majlis (Azerbaijani Parliament) have warned, in a letter to the French Senate, that France may cast a shadow over its neutrality regarding its Co-Chairmanship of the OSCE Minsk Group by making it a crime to deny that the killing of Armenians in 1915 by Ottoman troops should be regarded as ‘genocide’. The letter reiterated Azerbaijani concerns over the bill, which was passed by the French Assembly in December, and awaits ratification by the French Senate.
Ali Hasanov, Head, Social and Political Department, Azerbaijani Presidential Administration, added fuel to an ongoing debate in Azerbaijan as to whether or not France can continue as an honest broker. He subsequently commented that France’s mediating role in would be discussed at the next OSCE Minsk Group meeting. Meanwhile, Turkish President Gül has urged France to withdraw from the OSCE Minsk Group if the bill becomes law.
Elman Abdullayev, Spokesman, Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry commented that, as France is one of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs, it is regrettable to note that the judgement by some French MPs has been affected by pressure from the Armenian diaspora. He said that if France is to take a principled approach to certain issues, it should also consider the Khojaly Massacre, during which Armenian and Soviet troops killed 613 Azerbaijani civilians in 1992.
The decision attracted condemnation from across the Azerbaijani political spectrum, with Asim Mollazade MP, Head, Democratic Reforms Party, commenting: "France has totally lost its reputation by endorsing this bill." He explained that Azerbaijan should work to replace France with the EU as a mediator in the OSCE Minsk Group, which may break the stalemate in the conflict.
Dunja Mijatovic, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, expressed concern over the move. She commented: "I believe that the final adoption of these legal amendments would raise serious concerns with regard to international standards of freedom of expression. Furthermore, it could set a precedent internationally for politically construed, ad-hoc criminalisation of public debates. This criminalisation of debates on history’s true course, even of obviously false and offensive statements about a nation’s tragic moments, is not conducive to a better understanding among people, communities and authorities of OSCE States." Mijatovic went on to stress her support for defeat of the bill in the French Senate.
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Condemnation of occupation in Presidential address
2012-01-18
In his speech to mark the Day of Azerbaijani Solidarity on 31 December and New Year’s Day, Azerbaijani President Aliyev commented: "The most troubling challenge for Azerbaijan is the unresolved status of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Azerbaijan is stepping up its efforts in all countries, especially in recent times. As you know, resolution of this issue is not solely dependent on us.
"Unfortunately, Armenia’s unconstructive stance, its hypocrisy during negotiations, and the practical defiance of talks, has dealt a serious blow to the process. The world community and the countries directly dealing with the issue are shying away from naming the party responsible for disrupting the talks. This year, the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs have repeatedly indicated that the ongoing status quo is unacceptable. We support these statements, but these should be followed by specific decisions, which have not been taken."
President Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan would continue its diplomatic and political efforts to peacefully resolve the conflict: "We have a principled stance in the negotiations. Nagorno-Karabakh is native and historical Azerbaijani land. The international community and the UN recognise and support Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity. The international community views Nagorno-Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan. The conflict must be resolved precisely on these principles. The territorial integrity of our country must be restored. The occupying forces must withdraw from all our occupied territories. We will never tolerate a second Armenian state on Azerbaijani lands."
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Baroness Ashton in Azerbaijan
2011-12-18
The peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict was a main topic of discussion during a meeting between Azerbaijani President Aliyev and Baroness Catherine Ashton, Foreign and Security Policy High Representative, EU, during her visit to the South Caucasus. The two sides also discussed issues related to bilateral co-operation, including energy.
Prior to this, Baroness Ashton referred to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict during an interview with the APA News Agency. She commented that the EU was: "Very concerned about the lack of progress in resolving the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, and would like to see how it could play a more active and helpful role, in full support of the OSCE Minsk Group."
She continued: "I have appointed a new EU Special Representative, Philippe Lefort, to take this work forward. A solution to the conflict would unlock huge potential for the entire region and particularly boost regional co-operation. Conflict resolution and reconciliation are key values, on which the EU itself is based, and which we believe can also inspire a renewed effort in the South Caucasus region. We will, of course, discuss the further development of our bilateral and multilateral co-operation in the context of the EU Eastern Partnership."
Baroness Ashton added that: "The OSCE Minsk Group has the mandate to mediate between the parties to the conflict. Our intention is to see whether we could do more to support its work, help build confidence between the two sides, and more generally act in support of the OSCE Minsk Group’s work. There is much at stake in this conflict, and a great deal to gain if it was resolved, both for the people of the region, and also for the EU. We are very worried, therefore, about the rise in tensions and the increase in incidents, and would like to see how we could help reverse this trend." Following the meeting, Baroness Ashton visited Georgia and Armenia, before travelling to Moscow to attend a meeting of the EU–Russia Council.
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CNN gives a week of special coverage to Azerbaijan
2011-12-18
As Azerbaijan prepares to host the Eurovision Song Contest 2012, the crew of CNN’s Eye On… series of short reports has visited the country. In the Eye on Azerbaijan series, CNN reporters Jim Clancy and Jim Boulden presented a mix of reports and interviews, covering some of the major Azerbaijani business, cultural and sporting stories.
Mike McCarthy, Vice-President, Coverage and Feature Programming, CNN International, commented: "Azerbaijan has changed beyond recognition since it gained independence from the Soviet Union 20 years ago. It has formidable energy resources, a rich culture and a burgeoning tourism industry. We want to look at some of the untold stories in the country, and take its temperature at this interesting time in its development."
Altogether, ten films were broadcast, focusing on such diverse topics as the exploitation of oil and gas reserves, including a visit to the Sangachal Terminal; women’s football, chess; caviar; carpets; mugham, incorporating an interview with Alim Qasimov; and preparations to host the Eurovision Song Contest. One of the most powerful videos comprised an interview with the photojournalist Reza, a National Geographic Fellow, who has powerfully documented the history of the country over more than 20 years, including Black January, the aftermath of the Khojaly Massacre and other aspects of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, in addition to powerful images of Azerbaijani culture, history and nature. To view the videos, go to http://bit.ly/udS3mn.
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Karabakh mediators cross contact line into Azerbaijan
2011-12-18
The OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs have crossed the ‘contact line’ separating Armenian and Azerbaijani troops. According to the Azerbaijani Defence Ministry, the mediators crossed the northern end of the line on foot between the Armenian village of Kayan and the Azerbaijani village of Jafarli in the Gazakh District.
Bernard Fassier, French OSCE Minsk Goup Co-Chair, commented: "This time we made the crossing not in Nagorno-Karabakh, but over the Armenian–Azerbaijani border. Fortunately, the tension here is less than along the ‘contact line’." The Co-Chairs then met Ayaz Asgarov, Head of the Gazakh Executive Authorities, and left for Baku via helicopter. Prior to crossing the ‘contact line’, the Co-Chairs exchanged views with the head of the executive authorities in the Armenian district of Tavuz. During their visit to Armenia, the Co-Chairs met President Serzh Sargsyan to discuss the current stage in negotiating a Nagorno-Karabakh settlement, in advance of the meeting of the OSCE Ministerial Council in Vilnius.
At the outset, Fassier introduced Armenian President Sargsyan to Jacques Fauré, his replacement as French OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair. Fauré was previously French Ambassador to the Ukraine. The ceasefire along the ‘contact line’ is regularly monitored by the OSCE. Despite this, exchanges of fire are frequent, with two Armenian and Azerbaijani soldiers being killed in separate incidents along the contact line during November. Some analysts have predicted that the role of France in the mediation process will increase in the wake of Russian President Medvedev’s apparent failure to broker a framework deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan in June.
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Meeting of Azerbaijani and Armenian communities of Nagorno-Karabakh approved
2011-12-18
Official Baku has indicated its approval for the arrangement of meetings between the Azerbaijani and Armenian communities of Nagorno-Karabakh. Ali Hasanov, Head, Public and Political Department, Azerbaijani Presidential Administration, commented: "Any method that may contribute towards achieving resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh problem, including meetings between the Azerbaijani and Armenian communities of Nagorno-Karabakh, is acceptable and will receive backing. We should welcome any activity leading towards settling the problem and creating conditions for its negotiated solution."
Rabiyyat Aslanova MP, Chair, Human Rights Committee, Milli Majlis (Azerbaijani Parliament) commented: "The meetings between the communities are extremely important, since Nagorno-Karabakh is an Azerbaijani territory and Armenians residing there are the citizens of Azerbaijan. Once peace is attained, these two communities will live and work together on this land."
The parliamentarian noted that developing ties between the two communities would serve to: "Create additional opportunities for informing the wider community about affairs in Nagorno-Karabakh, together with developing further plans in this direction."
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Armenian and Azerbaijani communities to meet in Paris
2011-12-18
Rasim Musabeyov, Azerbaijani MP, has revealed that: "A meeting of the Armenian and Azerbaijani communities of Nagorno-Karabakh is expected to take place in Paris during December." The move follows an event in Berlin entitled Dialogue Forum: Nagorno-Karabakh – Meeting of Azerbaijanis and Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh, which was also an initiative by the Azerbaijani Community of Nagorno-Karabakh that was boycotted by the Armenian community. Musabeyov explained: "Everyone was aware that the population of Nagorno-Karabakh did not solely comprise Armenians." He went on to explain that the organisers of the meeting in Berlin regretted the Armenian non-participation: "We explained our position during the meeting in Berlin, but the Armenian side decided not to attend, under the pretext of concerns regarding the meeting format. It was proven again that Azerbaijanis are ready to co-exist with Armenians, but the Armenians are unable to do so. This factor is understood across Europe."
The Berlin meeting was attended by many representatives from the Azerbaijani Community of Nagorno-Karabakh, including the Azerbaijani MPs Rovshan Rzayev and Rasim Musabeyov; Ramig Maharramov, Head Physician, Shusha Regional Central Hospital; and Farhad Badalbeyli, Director, Baku Music Academy, whose ancestral home is Shusha; together with Armenian representatives and German scientists and politicians.
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Azerbaijani soldier killed by Armenian sniper
2011-12-18
Teymur Abdullayev, Deputy Chief: Press Service, Azerbaijani Defence Ministry, has acknowledged the killing of the 19-year-old Azerbaijani soldier Elmar Samad Habibzade by Armenian snipers on 26 November in the Terter region. The Lankaran Regional Military Commissariat had drafted Habibzade in April.
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Nagorno-Karabakh statement to be adopted within OSCE Ministerial Council framework
2011-12-18
The Delegation Heads to the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair countries – Sergei Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister; Hillary Clinton, US Secretary-of-State; and Jean Leonetti, French Minister for European Affairs – met Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Affairs Minister and Edward Nalbandian, his Armenian counterpart, at the OSCE Ministerial Council Meeting in Vilnius on 6 December. All participants reaffirmed the importance of reaching a peaceful settlement to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Recalling the Moscow Declaration in November 2008, together with their countries’ statements at the OSCE Ministerial Council meetings in Helsinki (2008) and Athens (2009) and at the OSCE Summit in Astana (2010), the five Delegation Heads agreed that it was necessary to continue the negotiation process within the OSCE Minsk Group format. Within this, they agreed that further efforts should be implemented to investigate ceasefire violations, following the joint statement of Azerbaijani President Aliyev, Armenian President Sargsyan, and Russian President Medvedev at the Sochi Summit in March 2011.
Noting the statement of their Presidents at Deauville in May 2011, which urged Armenia and Azerbaijan to finalise the Basic Principles for the Peaceful Settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict, the Delegation Heads at the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair Countries expressed regret that the parties had been unable to take this decisive step. The three Delegation Heads reiterated the impossibility of a military solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. They stressed that the UN Charter, the Principles of the Helsinki Final Act, and the elements outlined in the joint statements of their Presidents at L’Aquila in July 2009 and Muskoka in June 2010 provided the route for all sides to move beyond the unacceptable status quo to reach a peaceful settlement.
Mammadyarov and Nalbandian informed the Delegation Heads of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair countries that their Presidents are ready to meet again in the near future to continue direct dialogue regarding the methods by which they may bring peace, stability, and prosperity to their peoples.
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Sammut expresses wish for enhanced EU role in conflict resolution
2011-12-18
Dennis Sammut, Director, LINKS, has commented that expansion of the EU role in resolving the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is key. The comments were made in a paper written for the Italian International Affairs Institute entitled After Kazan, a Defining Moment for the OSCE Minsk Process.
When commenting on the failure of the Kazan Summit between Azerbaijani President Aliyev and Armenian President Sargsyan, brokered by Russian President Medvedev, Sammut stated: "The peace process has not collapsed, but has been damaged." In the paper, Sammut proposed numerous measures aimed at improving the peace process, including greater scrutiny of the negotiations, spearheaded by the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs; enhanced ceasefire maintenance; a review of OSCE Minsk Group composition; involvement of the Armenians living in Nagorno-Karabakh and the displaced Azerbaijanis from the region; and consideration of the conflict within the wider context of the former Soviet Union and Europe; together with a more powerful role for the EU.
Sammut said: "The OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs have to somehow find a way of taking the negotiations forward. Over a long period, many observers have considered that the negotiations were being conducted in an overly secretive manner. There is a need for greater transparency, and the Co-Chairs need to be courageous at this juncture. The peace process must be opened up to greater scrutiny, and the sides – Armenia and Azerbaijan – together with the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs, need to consider if there are other methods that can be harnessed to pursue the peace process in the future."
Discussing the composition of the OSCE Minsk Group, Dennis Sammut stated: "Whilst the option that the EU may replace France as a Minsk Group Co-Chair is not on the agenda for the moment, a wider EU role is not only desirable but, in some ways, now inevitable. Philippe Lefort, the new EU special representative for the South Caucasus, has a clear mandate to engage with the conflict and peace process."
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Two decades of the OSCE Minsk Group – no cause for celebration
2011-12-18
Whilst speaking to journalists, Araz Azimov, Deputy Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan, recognised that: "Next year is the 20th anniversary of the OSCE Minsk Group. But it will not be a very solemn celebration." Azimov went on to state that the body had failed to achieve any result, despite the diplomats appointed as Co-Chairs being periodically replaced. He stressed the need for the Co-Chairs to be resolute in their mission. Azimov noted the Armenian dependence on the three Co-Chair nations and the pressure exerted by the Armenian disapora.
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Mikheil Saakashvili acknowledges the tragedy of Nagorno-Karabakh
2011-12-18
Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili, speaking at the Georgian–Armenian Business Forum in Tbilisi, has given his personal view regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Directing his speech at Armenian President Sargsyan, he commented: "The most painful issue for us is the conflict that exists between Armenia and Azerbaijan. As it is painful for the Caucasus, it is painful for Georgia. In the future, I believe that the economy of the Caucasus should be integrated."
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Azerbaijani Lieutenant slain by sniper fire
2011-11-18
Captain Teymur Abdullayev, Spokesman, Azerbaijani Defence Ministry, has revealed that 25-year-old Lieutenant Emin Elmar Aliyev was killed by Armenian sniper fire on 2 November near the Kuropatkino village of the Khojavend region.
The Lieutenant was a nephew of Major-General Lankaran Aliyev, who commented: “Emin defended his soldiers and was killed by an enemy sniper. We are proud of his sacrifice.”
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World Bank project to improve IDP conditions
2011-11-18
Due to a World Bank-financed project, around 185,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Azerbaijan will gain enhanced access to infrastructure, services, housing conditions and employment opportunities. The move follows an approval by the World Bank’s Board of Directors for a $50m (£31.1m) International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) loan, aimed at benefiting the Azerbaijani IDP’s Living Conditions and Livelihoods Project. Including the $28.5m (£17.7m) Government contribution, total project financing is expected to reach $78.5m (£48.8m).
The World Bank recognised that Azerbaijan continues to have one of the highest concentrations of IDPs per capita in the world. Currently, seven per cent of its population remains displaced, due to the Armenian occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh and the seven surrounding territories. Around half of these IDPs continue to live in unacceptable conditions.
Joanna De Berry, head of the World Bank team that prepared the report, commented: “Recent research and analysis by the World Bank and Azerbaijani Government indicates that, despite much investment, IDPs still remain vulnerable; are more likely to experience poverty than non-IDPs; have worse living conditions; and lower employment rates than the non-displaced. They also rely heavily on state transfers as their main income source. The project is designed to respond to these challenges and to complement the existing state-funded programmes for IDP housing provision. The project draws on experience gained from the World Bank Programme on Forced Displacement and from supporting the livelihoods of the rural poor across the world.”
The new project will build on the successful implementation of past World Bank-funded IDP support projects, under which more than 400 microprojects were implemented, benefiting over 120,000 IDPs across Azerbaijan. This will expand community microprojects, whilst strengthening the focus on improving the living conditions of those IDPs continuing to reside in public buildings and providing sustainable job opportunities to enhance their independence.
Asad Alam, Director, South Caucasus, World Bank, outlined: “The Azerbaijani Government and the World Bank are undertaking a 12-year partnership to promote IDP development in the country. The success of this partnership is attributable to the high level of commitment demonstrated by the Azerbaijani Government towards addressing IDP requirements.”
The project objectives include:
- investment in small infrastructure and services microprojects that IDP communities identify as their priorities. An estimated 200 microprojects will benefit 120,000–150,000 persons.
- rehabilitation of up to 95 collective centres, thus improving the housing conditions of about 30,000 persons.
- vocational training and grants for around 1,400 young people to facilitate establishment of their own businesses.
- training and resources for around 200 community groups to finance the launch of small enterprises. As part of the income-generating activities, approximately 1500 micro-credits will be extended to IDPs to start up or expand their businesses.
Since joining the World Bank in 1992, Azerbaijan has received approximately $2.9bn (£1.8bn) across 43 projects.
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All change on the Karabakh front?
2011-11-18
Azerbaijani sources have predicted that the next meeting between Azerbaijani President Aliyev and Armenian President Sargsyan may take place under the mediation of French President Nicolas Sarkozy. Sources claim that the proposal was made during the French leader’s recent visit to the region, and that it had been discussed and approved by the Russian and US Presidents.
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OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs’ report published
2011-11-18
The OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs – Ambassadors Bernard Fassier (France); Robert Bradtke (US); and Igor Popov (Russian Federation), together with Andrzej Kasprzyk, Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, have presented their annual report to the Permanent Council of the OSCE, preceding the forthcoming OSCE Ministerial Council Meeting in Vilnius.
According to an OSCE press release, the Co-Chairs noted that they visited the region eight times during the past year, holding 14 separate meetings in various locations with Azerbaijani President Aliyev and Armenian President Sargsyan. The Co-Chairs also crossed the ‘contact line’ by foot four times in the past 14 months, thereby demonstrating that the line is not a permanent barrier between the peoples of the region, and that military co-ordination regarding ceasefire implementation is possible, when all the sides are willing.
Highlighting the continued engagement of their three governments, the Co-Chairs reiterated that there would be no military solution. They stressed that political will by all sides is essential to ensure that the necessary difficult decisions are made, and that the sides can move beyond the unacceptable status quo and achieve peace.
The Co-Chairs also described the additional efforts being implemented to foster an atmosphere that would be conducive to negotiations; strengthen implementation of the ceasefire; and promote understanding amongst the peoples of the region. The Co-Chairs plan to revisit the region at the end of November to further develop proposals on these issues and discuss continuation of the negotiation process.
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UNESCO discusses Armenian destruction of Azerbaijani monuments
2011-11-18
Eleonora Huseynova, Azerbaijani Permanent Representative to UNESCO, has drawn attention to the ongoing Armenian occupation of Azerbaijani territory at the 36th session of the UNESCO General Conference in Paris.
She explained that this occupation has resulted in the destruction of many historical and cultural monuments across Azerbaijan. Huseynova revealed that nine centralised library systems, comprising 927 libraries and 4.6m books, had been plundered and destroyed in Armenian-occupied Nagorno-Karabakh and the seven surrounding regions. The occupied territories also housed some 22 museums, which contained over 100,000 exhibits; 808 clubs; four theatres; two concert halls; eight amusement parks; four art galleries; and 85 music schools.
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The Great Wall of Nagorno-Karabakh?
2011-11-18
Azerbaijan’s ANS Press has reported that a wall is under construction along the ‘contact line’. The stone structure will stretch for almost 3km in the Terter District in order to “protect the residents of Azerbaijani villages from Armenian bullets.”
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ICG dismisses conflict resolution hopes for two years
2011-11-18
Sabine Freizer, Director, Europe Programme, International Crisis Group (ICG), has dismissed any chance of achieving resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict for the next two years. During a press conference in Istanbul, she explained: “The situation will continue because elections are scheduled to take place in the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair countries – the US, Russia and France. Following this, elections will be held in Azerbaijan and Armenia.”
Freizer went on to explain that negotiations always slow on the eve of elections: “The world community, including the Co-Chairs, pinned great hopes on the Kazan meeting. Unfortunately, the summit yielded no result.” However, she expressed the view that if high-level meetings are not organised, then contact through the civil societies in both countries remains a necessity.
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Potential meeting between Azerbaijani and Armenian Nagorno-Karabakh communities
2011-11-18
Rabiyyat Aslanova, Head, Human Rights Committee, Milli Majlis (Azerbaijani Parliament) has revealed that the Azerbaijani and Armenian communities of Nagorno-Karabakh may meet in Khankandi, provided that security is ensured. The statement came in the wake of an initiative from Bahar Muradova, Vice-Speaker, Milli Majlis, to organise such a meeting. In turn, the unrecognised Armenian leadership in Nagorno-Karabakh replied that Khankandi could be the venue for this.
In the first instance, Aslanova reiterated that Khankandi remains Azerbaijani sovereign territory. She explained: “There is a need for this meeting. In any case, regardless of the placename used, there is a great need for a meeting between the two communities. We should also listen to the opposite side – the Armenians living in Nagorno-Karabakh, which is Azerbaijani land. They still hold Azerbaijani citizenship. Today, some Armenians even dream of dual citizenship.”
Aslanova continued: “We think about tomorrow, and believe that the Nagorno-Karabakh issue will be solved peacefully. We are ready to reconstruct buildings and conduct mine clearance in these areas.”
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Azerbaijani success recognised in the European Parliament
2011-11-18
The European Azerbaijan Society (TEAS) has expanded its European activities by hosting a conference in the European Parliament, Brussels, for over 60 stakeholders. Held on 20 October, this was entitled 20 years of independence: Azerbaijan’s future opportunities. During the event, the distinguished Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) Tunne Kelam (EPP – Estonia); Evgeni Kirilov (S&D – Bulgaria); and Ivo Vajgl (ALDE – Slovenia) joined H.E. Emin Eyyubov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to European Institutions, in giving an optimistic outlook for the country. They stressed the need for peace in the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh and the continuity of accelerated economic development. The other members of the panel were Tale Heydarov, Chairman and Founder, TEAS; and Göran Lindblad, former Vice-President and Chair, Political Affairs Committee, PACE, who moderated the discussion.
Initially, Mr Kelam gave a brief overview of Azerbaijani history, explaining how the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR) was the first democracy in the Muslim East, prior to the Soviet invasion. Mr Kirilov went on to explain the need for reconciliation between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh situation, and the requirement to ensure that Azerbaijani sovereign territory is maintained.
Mr Vajgl went on to emphasise how EU member states are developing good relations with Azerbaijan and contributing towards conflict resolution. He stated that the Nagorno-Karabakh issue remains “a piece of Cold War” and a “deeply rooted political problem”. The MEP commented on the activities of the OSCE Minsk Group, and urged the Co-Chairs to increase their efforts. He argued in favour of giving a clear path for EU alliance with both Azerbaijan and Armenia to accelerate regional development.
Ambassador Eyyubov summarised Azerbaijani democratic development and explained that his country was “an ancient nation”, despite being a “young State”. Following an initial period of “disarray” from 1991–93, due to the war with Armenia, combined with economic recession, the situation rapidly improved and stability was achieved. He emphasised the potential economic benefits to Armenia if peace was achieved, as this would enable hydrocarbon resources to be transported across its territory.
The Ambassador stressed that, since 1994, Azerbaijan had been transformed into “a locomotive” for hydrocarbon resources, becoming a secure source of Western European energy. He cited figures from The Economist, which concluded that Azerbaijan had experienced the greatest GDP growth in the world during the past decade, now accounting for 83 per cent of the entire South Caucasus GDP.
Turning to security, he underlined the participation of his country in various NATO peacekeeping missions, including those in Afghanistan. He acknowledged that the greatest challenge remains the achievement of “a constructive solution” to the Nagorno-Karabakh situation.
Mr Vajgl expressed hope for stronger co-operation between the EU and Azerbaijan, which could potentially become an EU member. He also called for an end to the Armenian invasion of Azerbaijani territory. Mr Kirilov explained the need for energy supply diversity, also mentioning the necessity for enhancement of relations with Turkmenistan and the expedited development of Transcaspian pipelines. The Ambassador commented that the decision on the Azerbaijani government’s favoured pipeline projects would be finalised by the end of 2011.
The panel discussion was followed by a reception, having been well-attended by MEPs, EU Commission members, the diplomatic community and NGO representatives.
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Ambassador addresses LSE students
2011-11-18
H.E. Fakhraddin Gurbanov, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the UK, has delivered a lecture to the LSE Students’ Union Grimshaw International Relations Club as part of the celebrations to commemorate the 20th anniversary of regaining Azerbaijani independence. Speaking before 40 students, he outlined the struggle to regain independence during the collapse of the Soviet Union, and how this built upon the progressive achievements of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR) (1918–20).
The Ambassador continued: “Azerbaijan is located in a complex geopolitical position, and was in a challenging state of economic disadvantage when it regained its independence. The Azerbaijani enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh always contained around 75 per cent Armenians, but both nationalities lived alongside each other. The conflict with Armenia resulted in nearly a million refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) being expelled from their homeland, thereafter living in camps across their own country. Following the ceasefire in 1994, Armenia has since ignored the four UN Security Council Resolutions passed against its illegal occupation of these territories.” He also explained the failure of the OSCE Minsk Group, which has been attempting to achieve a negotiated ceasefire since 1994.
Ambassador Gurbanov went on to outline Azerbaijani membership of various international bodies, including the Parliamentary Assembly for the Council of Europe (PACE); Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE); the EU Eastern Partnership; and its participation in the NATO Partnership for Peace Programme. He went on to discuss the Basic Principles proposed by Azerbaijan to ensure the peaceful resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, including the granting of a high degree of autonomy for the region.
The Ambassador also discussed the achievements of Azerbaijan during the past two decades: “For several years, Azerbaijan posted the highest GDP growth in the world, and is in a privileged situation. Currently, the Baku–Tibilisi–Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline, of which BP has the controlling share, delivers 1m barrels of oil per day. There are more than 170 UK companies in Azerbaijan, and it is home to more than 5000 UK expatriates. Azerbaijan is attempting to diversify its economy away from the oil and gas sector, and is particularly concentrating on such sectors as IT, tourism and agriculture.”
He concluded: “20 years is a short period, and Azerbaijan has faced many challenges. It has achieved a great deal, and the government has a responsibility to ensure future economic sustainability.” The speech was followed by a wide-ranging question-and-answer session, covering such areas as preparations to host the Eurovision Song Contest, and the potential threat of armed conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh.
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Azerbaijan participates in Eastern Partnership Summit
2011-10-24
Azerbaijani President Aliyev has attended the EU Eastern Partnership Summit in Warsaw. In his introduction, Štefan Füle, European Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy, expressed a wish that visa facilitation and readmission agreements should be concluded with Azerbaijan and other member states.
During his time in the Polish capital, President Aliyev met Baroness Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President, European Commission. Discussion topics included the latest developments in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict peace talks and EU–Azerbaijani co-operation in energy and other sectors. He also met Georgian President Saakashvili to outline plans for further development of bilateral economic and trading relations. President Aliyev went on to meet the three Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group, tasked with brokering peaceful resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. This discussion with Robert Bradtke, USA; Bernard Fassier, France; and Igor Popov, Russia; accompanied by Andrzej Kasprzyk, Personal Representative, OSCE Chairman-in-Office, focused on the current state and prospects for peace talks regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
President Aliyev also met Vladimir Filat, Prime Minister, Moldova, stressing the significance of expanding bilateral economic co-operation and their joint involvement in international and regional organisations, including the GUAM Organisation for Democracy and Economic Development.
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Nagorno-Karabakh death toll rises before Sarkozy visit
2011-10-24
According to the Azerbaijani Defence Ministry, Armenian snipers have killed two Azerbaijani soldiers near the Nagorno-Karabakh ‘contact line’, just hours before the start of French President Nicolas Sarkozy’s visit to the South Caucasus. The killings occurred on 5 October – the same day that President Sarkozy gave an interview urging Armenia and Azerbaijan to take more decisive steps towards striking a peace deal.
Teymur Abdullayev, Spokesman, Azerbaijani Defence Ministry, commented: “Shooting from the Armenian side killed 20-year-old soldier Novruz Aliyev and 22-year-old serviceman Suleiman Askerov.” In an interview preceding his two-day Caucasus visit, President Sarkozy called on both Armenia and Azerbaijan to “take the risk of peace.” He commented: “There is no greater danger than inaction, which gives rise to illusions, fuels resentment and, bit by bit, delays the chances of peace on a daily basis.” To date, this year has seen 17 soldiers killed on both sides, amidst regular exchanges of gunfire along the ‘contact line’.
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OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs to visit South Caucasus in October
2011-10-24
The OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs – Robert Bradtke, USA; Bernard Fassier, France; and Igor Popov, Russia – tasked with brokering a negotiated peace over Nagorno-Karabakh, will pay their next visit to the region during October. Popov made the announcement to APA’s Moscow correspondent, but did not reveal the exact dates of the visit. The three Co-Chairs recently met Azerbaijani President Aliyev and Armenian President Sargsyan separately during the EU Eastern Partnership Summit in Warsaw. The Co-Chairs also reaffirmed the commitment made by Russian President Medvedev, US President Obama, and French President Sarkozy in their Deauville Statement of 26 May in which they pledged to assist the sides in achieving a settlement. The Co-Chairs will also meet at the OSCE Ministerial Council in Vilnius in December.
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Germany pledges support for the Azerbaijani perspective
2011-10-24
H.E. Herbert Quelle, German Ambassador to Azerbaijan, has commented that peaceful resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is only achievable with the support of the international community. Speaking during the Day of German Unity in Baku, he reiterated: “World public opinion will play a key role in establishing this support. We have always backed Azerbaijani territorial integrity, although we must simultaneously accept the OSCE Minsk Group negotiation format and that this must not be disturbed.”
He went on to explain that the EU, including Germany, is mostly concerned with questions on how to construct a framework around the ongoing negotiations that will be conducive to a solution. He continued: “I am confident that the new EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus will establish some proposals in the near future.”
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PACE President requests respect for Nagorno-Karabakh Subcommittee
2011-10-24
Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, President, Parliamentary Assembly for the Council of Europe (PACE), has pledged his support for re-establishment of the PACE Subcommittee on Nagorno-Karabakh, requesting respect from all parties on this matter. During a press conference in Strasbourg concerning the move, he answered questions from Armenian journalists regarding the development: “PACE adopted the resolution on Nagorno-Karabakh in 2005, and the PACE Bureau passed a decision to establish a Subcommittee on Nagorno-Karabakh. Following the death of Lord Russell-Johnston, the first Committee Chairman, the PACE Bureau reconsidered the issue and passed a decision to resume its activity, which was not accepted by the Armenian side.
“But I must reiterate that any decision passed by PACE and its Bureau must be accepted by all member states, and this decision must be respected. I consider it important to reiterate that this Subcommittee will be engaged mainly in the humanitarian elements of these issues and make efforts towards strengthening dialogue between both countries’ delegations to PACE. The next meeting of the Committee will be held today, and I hope the Armenian delegation will participate in its work.”
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Azerbaijani army officer suffers head wounds
2011-10-24
Gabil Abdullayev, an Azerbaijani Lieutenant, was wounded by the Armenian armed forces on 14 September in the ‘contact line’ of the Fuzuli region. He was hospitalised with head wounds, which an Azerbaijani Defence Ministry spokesman described as ‘stable’.
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Armenian mines in Aghdam
2011-10-24
According to the APA news agency, Armenian-made PMN-57 anti-personnel and anti-tank mines have been discovered in the Khachin River, near the Ashagi Garvand village in the Azerbaijani Aghdam region. The devices were discovered by the local residents, who immediately informed the Azerbaijani National Agency for Mine Actions (ANAMA).
The mine-clearance specialists commented that such mines are frequently discovered in rivers and tributaries passing through the Armenian-occupied territories. Armenian-made plastic-coated mines are lightweight and can easily be released in water.
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Mammadyarov addresses UN General Assembly
2011-10-24
Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister, has reiterated his call for the withdrawal of Armenian armed forces from Nagorno-Karabakh, during a meeting of the UN General Assembly in New York. He explained: “Azerbaijan is confident that conflict resolution must start with the withdrawal of Armenian armed forces from the occupied territories, according to the fixed timetable. This should be followed by the restoration of communications, return of refugees and internally-displaced persons (IDPs) and the creation of conditions to ensure the peaceful coexistence of Azerbaijanis and Armenians in the Nagorno-Karabakh region within the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan.”
According to Mammadyarov, the incremental approach, which has been proposed by the mediators and supported by the international community, other than the Armenian leadership, will bring about durable peace, stability and predictability for the region.
Mammadyarov welcomed the UN General Assembly’s adoption of a resolution on strengthening the role of mediation in the peaceful settlement of disputes, conflict prevention and resolution. He continued: “In this document, the UN General Assembly reiterates that all Member States should strictly adhere to their obligations, as laid down in the UN Charter, and reaffirms the commitment to respect the sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of all States. Azerbaijan looks forward to implementation of the relevant guidance for more effective mediation, as indicated in the resolution, and we are ready to actively contribute to its elaboration.”
The Minister recalled that, in 1993, the UN Security Council adopted four resolutions, which demanded the immediate, complete and unconditional withdrawal of Armenian forces from the occupied territories of Azerbaijan and reaffirmed the sovereignty, territorial integrity and inviolability of internationally-recognised Azerbaijani borders. The same appeals were made by other international organisations. He commented: “Unfortunately, Armenia continues to ignore the calls of the international community.”
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Bryza maintains positivity
2011-10-24
Matthew Bryza, US Ambassador to Azerbaijan, has voiced his opinion regarding a perceived reduction in military rhetoric from the sides regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. He commented: “Statements regarding the military solution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict are being heard less frequently than was previously the case. This is a very positive indicator and development. I wish to state that Azerbaijan advocates the non-use of force and a peaceful solution to the conflict. It is necessary to finalise the process of co-ordinating the basic principles. This is not an impossible issue, and dischord between the sides can be resolved. I reiterate that the conflict cannot be solved by military methods.”
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Pashayeva demands PACE condemnation of Nagorno-Karabakh elections
2011-10-24
Ganira Pashayeva, Member of the Azerbaijani delegation to PACE, has delivered a stinging rejection of the elections held in Nagorno-Karabakh by the occupying powers. She explained: “Armenia has not fulfilled its PACE and UN resolutions, and has held illegal elections in the occupied Azerbaijani lands, including the unrecognised ‘Nagorno-Karabakh Republic’. It has not paid attention to the calls and demands of the Council of Europe. The municipal elections held in the occupied Azerbaijani territories on 18 September are contrary to international law, to UN, OSCE and PACE resolutions, and are simultaneously a serious blow to the negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia regarding the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. They have also caused tension in the region. The Assembly must condemn such cases and demand that Armenia stops their recurrence.”
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Nagorno-Karabakh motion tabled in Swedish parliament
2011-10-24
The Swedish-Azerbaijani Academic Society (SAAS) has announced that a motion for resolution regarding the Armenian occupation of Azerbaijani territories will be presented to the Swedish parliament. The motion specifies the withdrawal of the Armenian military forces from the occupied Azerbaijani lands, and the rights of the Azerbaijani refugees and IDPs to return home. Mehmet Kaplan, the renowned and influential Swedish MP, who leads the Green Party in the Swedish Parliament, tabled the motion.
The motion demands that Sweden, within the UN, EU and other international organisations should work to:
- break the international silence on Nagorno-Karabakh, and ensure that the issue is brought up the international political agenda
- bring about the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all Armenian military forces from the occupied Azerbaijani lands
- ensure that the Armenian minority in Nagorno-Karabakh is guaranteed safety, security and autonomy within the framework of Azerbaijan’s territorial boundaries
- develop special programmes for reconciliation and tolerance between Azerbaijanis and Armenians in the Nagorno-Karabakh region.
Before the Swedish parliament votes on whether to adopt the motion, the Foreign Affairs Committee will debate its contents. If it fails to gain unanimity in its recommendations, voting in the assembly will be preceded with a discussion. The decisions of the parliament are mandatory, thus a positive outcome of the voting would necessitate that the Swedish government should execute the contents of the resolution and adopt it as an active part of its foreign policy.
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New letter on Nagorno-Karabakh issued to UN Secretary-General
2011-09-23
Agshin Mehdiyev, Permanent Representative of Azerbaijan to the UN, has despatched a new letter to Ban Ki-Moon, UN Secretary-General. According to the UN News Service: “Instead of preparing its people for peace and a prosperous and stable future in friendship and co-operation with its neighbouring nations, the President of Armenia openly incites the youth and future generations of his country to new wars and violence. The increasing number of casualties over the past few months amongst Azerbaijani civilians residing in the front-line areas testifies to Armenia’s apparent disregard of its obligations under international law and in the context of the ongoing conflict settlement process.
“In their joint statement of 26 May, made in Deauville, France, the Presidents of France, the Russian Federation and the USA inter alia, strongly urged the sides to prepare their populations for peace, not war. At a meeting with the participants in the fifth Pan-Armenian Olympiad for the Armenian Language, Literature and Armenian Studies held in Gara Chichek (Tsakhkadzor), Armenia, on 25 July, the head of the Armenian State instructed the youth of his country to continue implementing the policy of hatred and mistrust among the peoples of the region. Thus, in response to the question from a student about the prospects for expanding Armenia’s territory at the expense of neighbouring Turkey, Serzh Sargsyan said that the realisation of this duty would depend on the efforts of the new generation, and referred to the fulfilment of a task to capture part of what he called “our fatherland – Karabakh.”
Mehdiyev continued by stating: “Azerbaijan considers the historical assertions of the Armenian side to be false, a vivid example of which is the reference by the President of Armenia to the occupied Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan as allegedly the occupiers’ ‘historical land’ or ‘fatherland’. These have the sole purpose of misleading the international community and justifying a policy of violent territorial expansionism.” Mehdiyev noted that, having implemented the total ethnic cleansing of both the territory of Armenia and the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, the Armenian President had succeeded in creating an uniquely mono-ethnic culture in these areas. He concluded: “Thus, the Armenian leadership has unveiled its expansionist intentions, at the core of which are historical delusions and racial animosity.”
The letter concluded by outlining the impact of Armenian ceasefire violations during July, highlighting the deaths of a 13-year-old Azerbaijani girl and an Azerbaijani soldier, together with the wounding of two civilians.
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Kobia requests accelerated conflict settlement for Nagorno-Karabakh
2011-09-23
During a press conference, Roland Kobia, Head of the EU representative office in Azerbaijan, outlined the necessity for expediting resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. He stated: “Armenia and Azerbaijan failed to reach an agreement on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement during the Kazan meeting, but this does not indicate that the whole procedure has failed. Of course, the inability to reach an agreement at the meeting is disappointing, but a few days later a meeting was held in Sochi between the Azerbaijani and Russian Presidents. I heard it was held in a positive atmosphere, and we would like this process to continue. I would not like to think that the settlement process has ended."
Kobia then touched upon the incidents occurring at the ‘contact line’ between Armenian and Azerbaijani troops. He explained: “We are saddened by the situation in the frontal zone. Such cases from the Azerbaijani or Armenian sides must not take place, because there is a ceasefire régime. No-one should die there, and both sides must respect the this.”
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ICRC missing persons database created for Nagorno-Karabakh
2011-09-23
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has registered 4,575 unaccounted Azerbaijanis as ‘missing persons’, all of whom disappeared during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Sylvie Graenicher, Co-ordinator, ICRC Defence Programme Co-ordinator in Azerbaijan, explained that the ICRC had collected this information from the families of disappeared people to create the Ante Mortem database. The ICRC undertook the work in collaboration with the Azerbaijani Red Crescent Society. To date, questionnaires regarding 3,631 missing persons have been received. Graenicher explained: “The collection of Ante Mortem data is being undertaken by the ICRC to support the authorities’ efforts, as they bear primary responsibility for clarifying the fate of the missing persons.”
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Official protests over illegal visit of French MPs
2011-09-23
The Azerbaijani Embassy in Paris has submitted a formal protest to the French Foreign Ministry regarding an illegal visit by four French MPs – Guy Teissier, Jacques Remile, Georges Colombier and Valérie Boyer – to Nagorno-Karabakh and the seven surrounding territories. Elman Abdullayev, Spokesman, First Secretary of the Foreign Ministry, revealed: “The French MPs will be added to the ‘blacklist’ of persons whose entrance to Azerbaijan is considered undesirable, due to a lack of respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and failing to inform the relevant Azerbaijani government bodies about visiting the Nagorno-Karabakh region.”
Abdullayev went on to explain that the Azerbaijani Embassy in Paris had sent a protest note to the French Foreign Ministry. It also appealed to the French Foreign Ministry, requesting clarification from the French National Assembly. He outlined: “In this letter, Baku demanded an explanation in connection with the French parliamentary delegation’s visit to the occupied Azerbaijani territories.”
Previously, France has repeatedly voiced official support for Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity. However, the Azatutun (Freedom) radio station reported that Guy Tessier, Chairman of the French Assembly’s Defence and Armed Forces Committee, led the delegation. He is the mayor of the ninth and tenth arrondissement of Marseille, which is densely populated by Armenians. The visit was clearly an attempt to gain diaspora votes in the French legislative elections, scheduled to take place next year.
Musa Gasimli, Azerbaijani MP, commented: “France is one of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs, and mediators should be neutral, impartial and operate within their mandates. The French MPs’ visit to the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan casts a shadow on the mediation mission of this country.”
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ICRC employees visit Azerbaijani POW in Armenia
2011-09-23
Members of the ICRC visited Roman Huseynov, Azerbaijani Prisoner-of-War (POW), who is currently being held in Armenian captivity. According to Shahla Gahramanova, Spokesman, ICRC Baku Office, employees from the ICRC Yerevan Office assessed the prisoner’s conditions, followed by an exchange of letters to and from his family. Azerbaijani army sergeant Huseynov was captured on 27 August 2010. Working under the Geneva Conventions, the ICRC has operated in the region since 1992, in connection with the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
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Armenia boasts of military buildup
2011-09-23
Lieutenant-General Movses Hakobian, Armenian Armed Forces Commander in Nagorno-Karabakh, has revealed that the Armenian-controlled territory has substantially boosted its weapons arsenal over the last six months, according to RFE/RL. The Commander estimated that the ‘military potential’ of his troops grew by 20 per cent during the first half of 2011.
During a press conference, he explained: “During this period, the qualitative and quantitative state of our weapons and military hardware changed considerably. Quite serious reforms were implemented, involving the restructuring of two army brigades.” Hakobian explained that the military would obtain new artillery, air defence and anti-tank weaponry, and this year would receive two divisions of new tanks. These have been supplied by Armenia, presumably having originally been sourced from Russia, although no disclosure has been made on the UN Register.
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Important role for Germany in Nagorno-Karabakh resolution
2011-09-23
Professor Udo Steinbach of Hamburg University, specialist in Middle-East studies, has given his perspective on EU–Azerbaijani integration and the potential for resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. He explained: “On the German side, I think we could do more, we should be more aware about Azerbaijan and the place of the country in terms of political stability in the Caucasus. When it comes to Nagorno-Karabakh, the Germans have a role to play. Unfortunately, Germany and – especially – the German parliament and government do not fully comprehend how Germany should participate in bringing about a solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh problem. This is slowly developing, but is inadequate at present.”
He continued: “I think that there is apprehension in Germany and in Berlin about retaking Nagorno-Karabakh by force. The politicians are continually insisting that this problem should be solved politically. If a military conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh came to pass, this would exacerbate instability in the Southern Caucasus and the entire Near East region. People are very sceptical whether anything would be achieved by military means. We should do all that is possible to contribute towards a political solution, and this is a widespread opinion here in Berlin. Many other people and myself are trying to increase awareness about Nagorno-Karabakh in Berlin to make the German government more ready and open to contributions from a German perspective regarding the achievement of a political solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.”
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Aliyev and Medvedev meet in Sochi
2011-08-18
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev met in Sochi to discuss the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, issues of bilateral relations, and the status of hydrocarbon deposits in the Caspian Sea. President Medvedev stated: “I would like to have a sincere conversation on the next steps to be taken and how developments are continuing, taking into consideration our last trilateral meeting held in Kazan, and previous meetings in this format.”
President Aliyev replied: “Azerbaijan and Armenia are neighbours, both being Caspian nations and Caucasian countries. In many respects, developments in the region are determined by our interaction. In Azerbaijan, we greatly appreciate your personal involvement in this process. These rounds of negotiations, held in a trilateral format, have brought the sides very much closer.
“The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict remains a major problem of regional security, and Azerbaijan is interested in resolution of the conflict in the very near future, enabling the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to return home and facilitating the re-establishment of peace in the region.” It is unclear whether Medvedev plans to hold similar talks with Armenian President Sargsyan.
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No US aid for Nagorno-Karabakh
2011-08-18
In a statement, Azerbaijani diaspora organisations in the US have welcomed the decision by the US Congress to omit Nagorno-Karabakh from the recipients’ list for US aid in 2012.
Board Members of the Pax Turcica Institute, Azerbaijan Society of America and Azerbaijani–American Council welcomed the recent decision by the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related Programmes to eliminate direct US assistance to the Armenian-occupied Nagorno-Karabakh and seven adjacent territories from the Fiscal Year 2012 budget appropriations for the South Caucasus.
The US Congress has been allocating funds to address the humanitarian needs of the victims of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict since 1992. Since 2005, under pressure from Armenian–American groups, US funds have been solely provided to the Armenian community in the occupied regions, whilst the 870,000 Azerbaijani IDPs and refugees received no assistance.
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EU interest in Nagorno-Karabakh increases
2011-08-18
An EU meeting in Strasbourg has indicated enhanced interest in resolving the Nagorno-Karabakh issue. Michal Labenda, Polish Ambassador to Azerbaijan, outlined Poland’s EU Presidency priorities, emphasising that that the country would particularly seek to promote the EU Eastern Partnership. He commented that the Partnership Summit in September would: “Provide an impetus for the integration process of Azerbaijan in the EU.” Jérôme Pons, Chargé d'affaires of the EU delegation to Baku, stated that: “Nagorno-Karabakh has always been considered a part of the territory of Azerbaijan and this is the approach of the international community.”
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Gallup poll finds strong Armenian pro-Russian sentiments
2011-08-18
A recent Gallup opinion poll has found that three-quarters of the Armenian population approve of Russia’s current leadership. This makes it the fifth most pro-Russian country in the world.
The poll – conducted in 104 countries last year – shows that only seven per cent of Armenians are critical of the Kremlin’s leadership, with another 17 per cent being undecided. The remaining 75 per cent positively assess policies pursued by President Dmitry Medvedev and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.
Moscow enjoys higher approval ratings in only four other countries included in the survey – Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Mali, and Uzbekistan. Despite increasingly favouring closer ties with the West, many Armenians continue to regard Russia as a guarantor of their country’s security. A Gallup spokesman commented: “The high approval rating reflects how dependent many residents of these counties are on remittances from Russia.” In Armenia, these monies constituted 13 per cent of the country’s GDP last year. Government data shows that around 80 per cent of the 2010 cash remittances totalling at least $1.3bn (£80m) emanated from Russia, which is home to hundreds of thousands of Armenian migrant workers.
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Azerbaijani President receives PACE delegation
2011-08-18
Azerbaijani President Aliyev has received a delegation from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). During the meeting, he spoke about the development of the country since the regaining of Azerbaijani independence; the strength of the economy; and the country’s relationship with all EU member states and NATO partners. President Aliyev went on to reiterate the inherent racial and religious tolerance of Azerbaijan, this fact being acknowledged by Luca Volontè, Chairman, European People’s Party’s group (EPP), PACE.
In contrast, Volontè was informed about the realities of Armenian ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh, resulting in 870,000 Azerbaijani refugees and Internally Displaced People (IDPs), and the flouting of four UN Security Council resolutions. President Aliyev reiterated his call for influential countries to support Azerbaijani territorial integrity.
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Basic principles must be agreed as top priority
2011-08-18
Lamberto Zannier, Secretary-General, Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), has commented that the South Caucasus is important in maintaining security and stability across the entire OSCE area.
As the OSCE addresses protracted conflicts through agreed formats, Zannier stated that he shares the opinion of the OSCE Minsk Group that the Basic Principles must be agreed as a top priority, enabling Armenia and Azerbaijan to move towards the drafting of a comprehensive peace settlement.
He added that: “All OSCE efforts are based on mandates agreed by consensus across the 56 participating states,” and thus “the countries of the South Caucasus – Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia – are not only ‘consumers’ of our efforts, but also contributors to the work of the OSCE, as a whole, to promote security, prosperity and democracy throughout the OSCE space.” He was therefore: “Optimistic that progress can be achieved.”
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OSCE remains most effective Nagorno-Karabakh resolution format
2011-08-18
João Soares, newly-appointed Special Representative for the South Caucasus, OSCE, has commented that the OSCE Minsk Group remains the most effective format for Nagorno-Karabakh negotiations. He stipulated that his mandate would focus on protracted conflicts, together with implementing and monitoring the important democratic reforms across the three South Caucasus countries.
Soares added that he would visit the area in the immediate future, as he considers this to be necessary to facilitate direct dialogue regarding Nagorno-Karabakh with all segments of society in both Armenia and Azerbaijan.
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Nagorno Karabakh conflict – an EU responsibility?
2011-08-18
Dr Sofie Bedford, Centre for Russian and Eurasian Studies, Uppsala University, has given her perspective on the US, Russian and European intervention in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. She commented that the US hosting of a meeting between Azerbaijan and Armenia could provide benefits, such as recognition of the unacceptability of the status quo, although there would potentially be intimidation from Russian leaders, who had previously operated as mediators.
Whilst describing the significance of the Azerbaijani–Armenian Kazan Summit, mediated by Russia, Dr Bedford mentioned that the significance of this meeting is that, despite the lack of progress, the talks are continuing.
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Armenia and Azerbaijan respond to amended Basic Principles
2011-08-18
Late July was a period of daily contact between Armenian and Azerbaijani officials and the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs from Russia, the US and France. This culminated in answers from Azerbaijani President Aliyev and Armenian President Sargsyan regarding Russian President Medvedev’s proposal that both sides should accept the amended Basic Principles.
The Co-Chairs went on to issue a joint statement on 18 July, which states: “In Baku and Yerevan, the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs met Presidents Aliyev and Sargsyan, respectively. They reiterated to both Presidents the importance of reaching agreement on the Basic Principles as the framework for moving toward final settlement negotiations. The Presidents committed to making their decisions regarding the most recent formulations proposed in the framework document, and to continue working with the Co-Chairs and the Co-Chair governments on the process of seeking a peaceful settlement.”
Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister, stated that Azerbaijan was calling upon Armenia to start work on a peace treaty regarding settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict without further prevarication, as Baku is ready to start negotiations on peace treaties with the Armenians. He expressed the view that the Kazan Summit was not entirely unsuccessful, instead representing a rapprochement of the sides.
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EU to financially assist Nagorno-Karabakh settlement
2011-08-18
Štefan Füle, EU Commissioner for Enlargement and the European Neighborhood Policy, revealed in an interview with RFE/Radio Liberty that the EU is likely to promote its participation in the Nagorno-Karabakh issue, being ready to provide financial assistance towards promoting settlement and reconstructing the region. However, if the sides reach a lasting agreement, the EU will provide more funds, including measures for social and economic development. He stated that the OSCE Minsk Group process would continue, and that replacement of one or more Co-Chairs had not been considered.
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After two decades, mine clearance continues
2011-08-18
Azerbaijan’s National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) defused nine anti-tank and four anti-personnel mines in July. According to a press release, during the month, it cleared an area covering 2,232,269 m. sq., also destroying 483 unexploded ordnances (UXOs). All the devices date from the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, which raged from 1988–94. Since 1998, ANAMA has cleared 167,029,079 m. sq. of Azerbaijani territory, destroying 662,446 mines and UXOs.
The July operations involved 480 mine specialists, 120 rescue workers, six mine-clearance vehicles and 32 specially-trained dogs. ANAMA is currently undertaking demining operations in Agdam, Agjabadi, Fizuli, Goranboy, Terter, Yevlakh and the Güzdek settlement.
In July, Aygun Shahmaliyeva, was killed by an explosive device placed inside a toy that she picked out of the Tovuz River, near the Armenian border. It is alleged that the toy came from Armenia. In another incident last month, soldier Hasil Sarkhanov, aged 19 years, was injured by an antipersonnel mine on the ‘contact line’ separating Armenian and Azerbaijani forces in the Terter District.
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Armenian armed forces injure Azerbaijani civilian
2011-08-18
An Azerbaijani 22-year-old civilian has been injured by Armenian armed forces whilst she was resting near the Mazam Lake, near the Armenian border. Abisalam Heydarov, Gazakh Regional Prosecutor, explained that the bullet passed through her arm. She was taken to the Gazakh Central Hospital, where her state was described as ‘critical’ although this assessment was revised to ‘stable’, following an operation. An investigation is now underway.
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Azerbaijani–Ukrainian co-operation within Euronest
2011-08-18
Elkhan Suleymanov, Azerbaijani Member of Parliament (MP) and Head of the Azerbaijani group in the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly, held a meeting with Boris Tarasyuk, Chairman, Ukrainian Parliament’s European Integration Committee and Co-Chairman, Euronest. Issues of bilateral co-operation between the countries within Euronest were discussed at length.
Following this, the importance of developing interparliamentary ties between the countries was reiterated during a meeting between Pavel Klimkin, Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister, and Eynulla Madatli, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Ukraine. Klimkin received a range of new publications on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, including a book on the Khojaly genocide, together with information on Azerbaijani participation in pan-European organisations.
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Armenians in Baku wish to remain in adopted homeland
2011-08-18
According to Hürriyet, the Turkish newspaper, many of the 20,000 Armenians living in Azerbaijan have indicated a wish to remain in the country, regardless of the possible recurrence of hostilities between Baku and Yerevan.
The Hürriyet journalist questioned four ethnic Armenian women that had resided in Baku since birth, and had never considered leaving the city. All had subsequently married Azerbaijani husbands and given birth to children, some of whom served in the Azerbaijani army.
One of the women, known as CR, aged 54 years, a graduate of the Baku Oil Academy, commented: “There was no difference between Azerbaijanis and Armenians during our childhood. We all grew up in with Azerbajanis, and we were all one. At the time, we did not know who was Azerbaijani and who was Armenian, as the separation began after the Nagorno-Karabakh war.”
Another woman, SG, aged 48 years, revealed that she had felt anxious during the Nagorno-Karabakh war, yet had never considered leaving the Azerbaijani capital. She continued: “We were born here, our parents are from Baku, and this is our land. How can we ever leave here? I have not personally witnessed any discrimination due to my Armenian identity. During the war, Armenians residing in Baku were protected by the state. Policemen gave us their personal telephone numbers, and asked to us to call them directly if something happened.”
AR, aged 56 years, recalled: “My son served in the Azerbaijani army and my neighbour’s son, who was also an Armenian, died in the Nagorno-Karabakh war whilst fighting on the Azerbaijani side. How can we say that we are different to our neighbours?”
Although the women had not experienced major problems, many Armenians left Azerbaijan during the war, according to RN, a 60-year-old housewife. She recalled: “Almost all of the Armenians who left Azerbaijan wish to return to their lands. I have friends and relatives in Russia, Belgium and the US, and they all want to come back.” Some Armenians also echoed their government’s perspective on the Nagorno-Karabakh issue. Armenian housewife CK, aged 54 years, stated: “Nagorno-Karabakh has been Azerbaijani land for decades; they have the right to ask for it back.”
Read the original article in Hürriyet here.
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Turkish support for refugees and IDPs
2011-08-18
Ali Hasanov, Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the State Committee on Refugees and IDPs, held a press conference with Turkish journalists to talk about the current state of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the work being undertaken by the Azerbaijani government to improve the living conditions of refugees and IDPs. He revealed that the government had allocated around $4.5bn (£2.7bn) to improve welfare standards during the past 20 years.
Hasanov called for the continuity of Turkish–Azerbaijani solidarity in combating Armenian expansionist activity. He also stressed his appreciation for the work of Turkish humanitarian organisations in Azerbaijan.
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US acknowledgement of Azerbaijani tolerance
2011-08-18
Matthew Bryza, US Ambassador to Azerbaijan, has met members of the Christian Udin community in the Nij village, Gabala region, and visited the restored 17th century Udin church. This was constructed on the site of a Christian Caucasian Albanian church from the 4th Century AD.
Ambassador Bryza noted the importance of such projects, as they preserve the rich cultural heritage of the South Caucasus region. He commented: “The preservation of such monuments has great importance that prevails over political, cultural and religious differences. Preservation of your church, culture and language is a splendid example of diversity and tolerance. I recently visited the Armenian Church in Baku, and believe that a day will come when the people will be able to pray in that church like you do here. I am glad to see the respect of the local officials and citizens for such sacred places.”
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Azerbaijan pursues successful foreign policy
2011-08-18
Azerbaijan has become one of the strongest countries in the Caucasus region, due to its pivotal role in political and economic sectors. Speaking on National Diplomats’ Day, Nadir Huseynov, Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister, explained that this position was attributable to the country’s rich natural resources and strategic geopolitical position; pursuit of a balanced foreign policy; internal sociopolitical processes; political stability; integration with the global community and sustainable development, amongst other factors.
Huseynov continued: “We must strive to continue conveying the true facts about our country to the international community, together with strengthening the Azerbaijani position to protect our national interests at a higher level. Naturally, our diplomats in missions across the world are playing an integral role in achieving these objectives. In particular, they must become active in raising awareness of the continuing Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
“Azerbaijani foreign policy collaborates with other countries and international organisations to combat terrorism; human trafficking; illegal migration; and international organised crime. Co-operation towards tackling such challenges will continue.”
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YAP Deputy Chairman meets PACE co-rapporteur
2011-08-18
Ali Ahmadov, Deputy Chairman and Executive Secretary of the ruling New Azerbaijan Party (YAP) has received Pedro Agramunt, Co-rapporteur for the Parliamentary Assembly to the Council of Europe (PACE); Agustín Conde Bajén, a member of the PACE Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights; and Egidijus Vareikis, Chairman, PACE Regulatory Committee.
Ahmadov stated that Azerbaijani society expects international organisations to take action regarding the fair settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, as significant results have not yet been achieved, to date. He commented that the international community should combine its efforts towards achieving satisfactory conflict resolution.
According to Ahmadov: “Azerbaijan remains an important country for Europe and plays an important role in achieving energy security.” He stated that YAP co-operates with the European People’s Party, of which Agramunt is a member, to which it has made a membership submission.
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Karabakh Foundation to present a book on Azerbaijani composers
2011-08-18
The Washington DC-based Karabakh Foundation has published a new book of sheet music by the most famous 20th century Azerbaijani composers. This comprises sections dedicated to each composer, each of which is prefaced by introductory material from renowned musical figures. The website is www.karabakhfoundation.org.
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Armenian occupation transformed Nagorno-Karabakh into a wasteland
Property abandoned by fleeing IDPs