POLITICS
AZERBAIJAN`S THIRD PERIODIC REPORT ON UN CONVENTION AGAINST TORTURE HEARD IN GENEVA
Baku, November 12 (AZERTAC). Presentation of Azerbaijan`s third periodic report on the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment was held during the 43rd session of the UN Committee Against Torture on November 9-10 in Geneva.
Azerbaijan`s delegation in the event was headed by deputy foreign minister Khalaf Khalafov who briefed the committee members on the legal basis created in his country to ensure and promote human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Khalafov said amendments and supplements made to the Constitution of Azerbaijan after a referendum on 18 March 2009 would contribute to strengthening human rights and freedoms and independence of courts in the country.
He spoke of what his country has done in cooperation with international and regional organizations to implement provisions of the Convention.
On the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Khalafov said in the wake of Armenia`s aggressive policy, Azerbaijanis were forced to live their historical lands, and people taken hostage were subjected to torture and inhuman or degrading treatment and punishment. He added 552 people were killed under brutal torture.
Then, the delegation members replied to relevant questions.
The committee members praised Azerbaijan`s cooperation with the Council of Europe anti-torture Committee and the ongoing legal reforms in the country.
They also made certain recommendations.