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BAKU-BRUSSELS (Azerbaijan-European Union relations)
comments coming from various sources. From one source we hear that the “Way
map” was agreed with preconditions, whereas from other sources we understand
that it is without preconditions. It is like a game of the word.
I think the world and the region, and Azerbaijani people would like to know what
is happening. Is Nagorno Karabakh settlement disconnected from Turkish – Arme-
nian rapprochement or not? This is a very simple question and very simple answer
is needed.
Khadija Ismayilova (Azadlig): I would like to ask about the political dimension
of cooperation and how the European Union assesses the democracy record of the
country? And is it enough to start a new level of the cooperation within the associa-
tion agreement as a further step?
Jose Manuel Borosso: Recently, we have published our report on this. I had
frank and open talk with President Aliyev about it. I appreciate the efforts he is
making for the establishment of the rule of law in Azerbaijan. It was stated for sev-
eral times that he wants to bring his country close to the European Union model and
values. I welcome this very much. I like to see some progress. As President Aliyev
mentioned economic reforms should also be accompanied by political reforms. I
think democracy is the most advanced political system and it should of course en-
courage all the steps made in Azerbaijan for consolidation of democratic system
and institutions and establishment of the rule of law.
Ilham Aliyev: It is absolutely clear for us that we will not be able to create a
prosperous and sustainable state without the rule of law and without strong de-
mocratization of the society. Our economic and political reforms are implemented
simultaneously. I also strongly believe that in a country with serious economic and
social problems and poverty, it will be very difficult to create a real democratic
state. Therefore, our efforts are aimed at reduction of poverty, which we success-
fully manage to do. Poverty level dropped several times in the last five years and
democratization of our country is successfully under way. Our relations with the
European Union and the Council of Europe set this goal in the agenda. If that was
not an intention of Azerbaijan, we would not do that. Azerbaijan is a country with
strong economic potential, the country, which is self-sufficient, the country which
already proved that it can live, survive and successfully develop as an indepen-
dent country. We want to establish a modern country, Azerbaijan, with its politi-
cal system, resolution of social problems and economic freedom pertinent to the
criteria of the EU. I think that our relations with the European Union, particularly,
on the neighborhood program and future relations on the Eastern Partnership will
strengthen these positive trends. Thank you.
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BAKU-BRUSSELS (Azerbaijan-European Union relations)
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev
meets with the representatives of the the Centre
for European Policy in Brussels
April 28, 2009
There was a meeting of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev with the rep-
resentatives of the the Centre for European Policy on the topic of “Azerbaijan:
increasingly important partner for the EU”.
The meeting was opened by Hans Martens, head of the centre. Talking about
successful development of Azerbijan, the speaker said that contacts between Azer-
baijan and European structures develop successfully.
President Ilham Aliyev made a speech in the meeting and answered the ques-
tions.
Moderator: Thank you. I think we can begin with questions on economic devel-
opment. It would be good to note whether your country`s economic growth con-
tinues in the period of economic and financial crisis. In my view, at the moment,
measures, which you take, have been directed to reinforce a long-term economic
development of your country. We know that the rate of economic development of
your country is very high. In brief, we are here to exchange views on these success-
ful works, as well as hard issues with Mr. President.
Question: Let me introduce myself. My name is Yevgeniy Kirillov. I am a mem-
ber of the European Parliament from Bulgaria. We are pleased with Azerbaijan`s
achievements in the sphere of economy. Mr. President, we are very thankful for
Your interesting presentation. We noted information which You provided. I want to
say that I was an observer in the presidential elections in Azerbaijan. In a primary
school we heard a conversation of teachers on the future of the country and multiple
increases of salaries. In my view, achievements gained by Azerbaijan in this field
are really appreciative.
The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict exists for 20 years. This problem continues for
a long time. There were many efforts. But by discussing this issue with our friends,
we point out that the European structures don`t play enough role for its resolution.
From this point of view, naturally, steps and special decisions must be taken. In my
view, some steps must be taken at least with regard to the regions around Nagorno-
Karabakh, occupied by the Armenian armed forces, for confidence building mea-
sures. I think the EU must take an active role in this. But in my opinion, Russia must
be active as well. I know that you have visited Russia and you are visiting Brussles
now. If the both parties are more active, what breakthrough is likely to be achieved
in the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict?