US KEEN IN EXPANSION OF MILITARY CO-OP WITH AZERBAIJAN
Greeting the guests, defense minister noted that the expanding cooperation between Azerbaijan and United States is being realized both in bilateral and in the frame of PfP Program.
Then, touching the existing military-political situation in the Caucasus, colonel-general Safar Abiyev, said: “Aggressive policy of the state of Armenia whose military potential is boosted by its patrons, impedes abolishment of tension and ensuring security in the region. As Armenia does not withdrew its armed forces from the occupied Azerbaijani lands, probability of resumption of the military operations remains.
Azerbaijan has defended its independence and will further defend. Therefore, we attach special importance to cooperation with the US and NATO, integration to the European security structures.
In this context, realization of the large-scale projects as Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil and Baku-Ersurum gas pipelines to transport the rich Caspian energy resources will not only strengthen independence of the Republic of Azerbaijan, but also open large opportunities for stable development of the entire South Caucasus region. But the territories of Azerbaijan are under occupation of Armenia who plays the role of jendarme in the region, we cannot speak of safety of these projects and stability in the region. I am sure that Azerbaijan with its friends will overcome every obstacle that hampers realization of these projects and integration of the South Caucasus to West”.
Expressing his gratitude for sincere reception, General Ch. Wald noted: “We pay particular attention to Azerbaijan that is among the countries of strategic significance for the United States and are keen in expansion of relations with Azerbaijan. Security of our friends is important for us when terror and non-tradition military threats increase in the world. Therefore, we hive high assessment to active participation of Azerbaijan in the peacemaking operation in the Balkans, Afghanistan and Iraq.”
Finally, the parties had comprehensive exchange of views on the issues of perspective of the Azerbaijan-US military co-op, regional security, non-proliferation of mass destruction weapons, ensuring security of the oil-gas pipelines and other issues of mutual interest.
Ambassador of the United States to Azerbaijan Republic Reno Harnish participated at the meeting.
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