On 31 October, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev gave at the “Ulduz” palace his first interview to the media representatives.

Q. Mr. President, You have already sworn as President. Now, You are the first person of the country, what feelings do experience?

A. You know, today is a very landmark day for me. Of course, I was a little bit excited, thought on future, on my plans. I must justify this trust rendered me. I should develop Azerbaijan with assistance of the people. The Republic should become stronger state. I must adhere Heydar Aliyev’s policy.

Noting that it puts a huge burden on his shoulders, Mr. Ilham Aliyev said: “I have to face many tasks and I must do a lot in the final stage of my life”. “It is a summit and being on the peak of it, I will represent not only myself, but the whole Azerbaijani people. It is burden of responsibility”.

Stressing his readiness for every task, the new President of Azerbaijan said that he would cope with every task with the help of the people of Azerbaijan. “I will be a good President for Azerbaijani people”, he added.

Asked whether he adheres to dialogue with opposition, Mr. Ilham Aliyev said: “My proposals remain in effect. Relations among the parties should be built on cultural ground. Some bodies say it is national solidarity. I do not agree with this. We have national solidarity. On 15 October, the nation expressed its solidarity. In this sense, the people demonstrated its will. But setting solidarity among the political parties is necessary, he emphasized.

“I reiterate it, and I have made it several times, made such invitations. If they will join this invitation, I am ready for dialogue”.

In his replies, President Ilham Aliyev also touched on the economic indices of the Republic, priorities of economy, investment involving, development of oil sector and land reforms.

“I consider that the next stage of development of economy must be connected just with much more actively development of private sector and we are ready to solve the tasks in this direction and create working places. This is the way to improve social conditions in the country”, he added.