On Friday, August 3, the United States and the Government of Azerbaijan conducted the third round of their bilateral dialogue on democracy and human rights in Azerbaijan, the Washington-based AZERTAC correspondent reported referring to the Department of State. The dialogue, which seeks to strengthen Azerbaijan`s democratic development and respect for human rights, was initiated by the U.S. in December, 2006 in Baku.

As stated, this round of the dialogue focused on media freedom, electoral processes, and human rights concerns, as well as the rule of law and the role of civil society. Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Barry F. Lowenkron and Assistant Secretary for Europe and Eurasian Affairs Daniel Fried represented the U.S. at the discussions. Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov led the Azerbaijan team.

The democracy and human rights dialogue is an inseparable component of the bilateral relationship with Azerbaijan, together with cooperation on energy, economic, and security issues, the Department of State notes.