MM DEPUTY SPEAKER MEETS WITH CHIEF OF CZECH PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE
Ziyafet Asgarov, Milli Majlis First Deputy Speaker, Chairman of the Parliamentary Commission on Security and Defense, met Monday with visiting Czech delegation led by Jan Hamacek, chairman of the parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs.
Z. Asgarov provided information about ongoing reforms in Azerbaijan, and the country`s integration into the Euroatlantic area. He noted the country`s National Security Conception had been endorsed while Military Doctrine is to be approved by the parliament within short time. According to him, Azerbaijan closely cooperates with NATO through Partnership for Peace and Individual Partnership Programs. During the Baku trip in late 2007, NATO representatives praised military reforms carried out in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan plays an important role in ensuring Europe`s energy security. Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline, Baku-Tbilisi-Erzerum gas pipeline and Nabucco project are the testimony of this.
Asgarov said official Baku backs peaceful resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict based on international legal standards. According to him, UN Security Council, Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe adopted very fair decisions on the conflict. Armenian`s non-constructive position does not allow to solve the problem. Under the international law, Azerbaijan has the right to restore its territorial integrity. If peace talks bring no results, Azerbaijan will consider other ways of liberating its lands.
Asgarov noted Azerbaijan places a particular emphasis on cooperation with Czech Republic.
Jan Hamacek pointed out the aim of his visit is to develop bilateral ties with Azerbaijan. Czechia praises ongoing reforms in Azerbaijan, accomplishments achieved and economic growth rates in the country. Czechia, which is going to take over EU presidency, is keen on cooperation with South Caucasus nations including Azerbaijan. He said Czech Republic can help boost Azerbaijan`s cooperation with NATO.
The sides exchanged views on reciprocal visits of parliamentary delegations, international cooperation and other issues of mutual concern.
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