Azerbaijani Studies Group launched at University of Cambridge
Cambridge, March 4 (AZERTAC). The Azerbaijani Studies Group has opened at the University of Cambridge.
At the launch ceremony, Azerbaijan`s Ambassador Fakhraddin Gurbanov delivered an opening speech on “Azerbaijan and the international: Key modalities of engagement.”
Speaking to the event, American researcher, expert for Russia and Eurasian region Paul Goble made a presentation entitled “At the crossroads of the world: Azerbaijan and the geopolitics of the Caucasus.”
Chairman of the Azerbaijan Society at the University of Cambridge Murad Ismayilov provided an insight into the activity and future plans of the Azerbaijani Studies Group. According to him, the group is planning to hold scientific conferences and other events on Azerbaijan.
Ambassador Gurbanov hailed the launch of the Azerbaijani Studies Group at the University of Cambridge.
Gurbanov said the foundation of bilateral relations was laid by national leader Heydar Aliyev during his visit to the UK in 1994 and 1998. President Ilham Aliyev`s trip to the UK in 2004, 2009 and 2012 boosted the bilateral ties even more. Reciprocal visits of Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov and his counterpart William Hague in 2013 are considered among the most important political events.
On the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Gurbanov noted Armenia continues to occupy the Azerbaijani lands despite the UN Security Council`s four resolutions and decisions of other international organizations. He pointed out that the UK recognizes the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and supports the efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group.
He praised the activities aimed at developing cultural and humanitarian ties. In this regard, he mentioned the Diaspora organizations such as the Europe-Azerbaijan, England-Azerbaijan societies, student organizations and Azerbaijan House.
On the economic cooperation, the Ambassador highlighted the importance of Europe`s energy security. He noted BP has been the main operator of the major energy projects since signing of the Contract of the Century in 1994. With USD 501 million of trade turnover, UK was Azerbaijan`s 15th largest trade partner in the world and the 4th in Europe.
The diplomat also provided information about the development of the non-oil sector, saying the Year 2014 was designated as the Year of Industry in Azerbaijan.
He expressed confidence that bilateral ties between the two countries would continue to develop.
Goble touched upon importance of Azerbaijan in the international arena. He underlined the importance of Azerbaijan for the security and stability in Caucasus. The researcher highlighted the importance of Azerbaijan’s developing bilateral relations with both the European Union and the United Kingdom.
Goble noted he got the chance to drill down into Azerbaijan-related issues while working at the ADA University. He said development of Azerbaijan is up to the European standards. Goble said there is enough potential for strengthening cooperation between the EU and Azerbaijan. According to him, bilateral ties in agriculture, education, trade are steadily developing. He expressed confidence for strengthening cooperation in other fields too.
The researcher praised Azerbaijan`s achievements in educating the world community on the Khojaly and 20 January tragedies.
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