POLITICS
‘AZERBAIJAN`S POSITIONS AT PACE STRENGTHENED EVEN MORE IN 2008’
Baku, January 6 (AZERTAC). Azerbaijan`s positions in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) strengthened even more in 2008, while Armenia`s weakened, head of Azerbaijani delegation to PACE Samad Seyidov said.
Seyidov noted over the past year Azerbaijani leadership made strenuous and fruitful efforts to protect the country`s interests and strengthen its international prestige.
He pointed out last year the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution reaffirming the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan which was also envisaged in the documents adopted by the PACE.
Seyidov emphasized Russia-Georgia conflict, which took place in August 2008, heightened international tension, adding the CoE leadership asked Azerbaijan to spare no efforts to reach peace.
Balanced foreign policy pursued by the Azerbaijani leadership allowed to perfectly protect the country`s interests in the world.
“International organizations and foreign countries considered that the presidential election held in Azerbaijan in October 2008 met democratic standards. As the election was held in a transparent and fair manner, the Parliamentary Assembly refused to discuss it,” he stressed.
Samad Seyidov also added “unlike Azerbaijan, Armenia faces pressures at PACE. The Armenian parliamentary delegation can be deprived of its voting rights in the organization.”
He also underscored, “while discussing human rights situation at PACE`s sessions, Azerbaijan is always cited as an example. So, the year 2008 was very successful for Azerbaijan in the organization.”