Ali Hasanov: We are for Europe!

Prospects for European Integration of Azerbaijan are discussed in the conference "European Way of Azerbaijan: progress and opportunity." The event was organized by the German Foundation Konrad Adenauer Foundation and SOCAR (State Oil Company of Azerbaijan).

Opening the meeting Adenauer Foundation representative Jens Paulus noted that Azerbaijan is at the center of European interests. Being in an unstable part of the world, Azerbaijan contributes to the security architecture of the region, he said.

Next, the event appeared chief ideologist authorities, Ali Hasanov, who was not on the list of speakers. As is often the case, he again surprised the audience with their performance.

Azerbaijan since independence has chosen the European way of development, he argued. "European way of development in the interests of the Azerbaijani people, consistent with its historical traditions. Azerbaijan sees its future in European integration, "- said Hasanov, who not long ago stated the opposite.

"You see, the European Union adopted a neighborhood program. At the hell do we need this program if many years Azeri officials over the years stand in line for visas. We are no worse than you "- Hasanov was publicly indignant a year ago."

    "Who is this Strasser (Council of Europe rapporteur on political prisoners), which has no credibility even among themselves in Germany. Make a hero out of him, and he gives us guidance. Does Germany have their little problems, Europe has few problems? Let them decide, and do not climb to us with tips,"- Outraged Hasanov, accusing Germany of robbery in Eastern Europe. "Who is responsible for the destruction and capture of the Romanian economy, Greece and other countries?"  he said.

However, something happened to Hasanov and today he thinks otherwise. In Azerbaijan, there was another alternative - the development on the model of its southern neighbor, but the country has made a European choice, he said.

Hasanov also pointed out the interest of Azerbaijan for cooperation with NATO, stressing that Baku does not intend to start either in the military alliance, or CSTO, and prefers to participate in the Non-Aligned Movement.

At the same time, Hasanov added a caveat that in the future Azerbaijan may decide to participate in military blocs or join what that organization, if required by the "national interest."

Regarding relations with Berlin, Hasanov again surprised the audience by stating that between Azerbaijan and Germany historically good relations and this will continue in the future.

"We recognize the crucial role of Germany in the European Union. We are for cooperation, but subject to the incorporation of our national interests, respect for the independence of Azerbaijan and the choice of the people of Azerbaijan," said Hasanov.

A former member of the administration of Chancellor Helmut Kohl Friedhelm Ost repeated the interest of Europe to Azerbaijan because of energy resources.

Europe via Azerbaijan sees its output to the resources of Central Asia, he said.

President of the European Economic Council Ingo Friedrich (İngo Friedrich) noted that Europe's relations with Azerbaijan, as well as with other members of the "Eastern Partnership" based not only on economic interests, but also shared democratic values. "In Europe, policy normally to criticism and got used to it. Here in Germany, politicians never praise," said the expert.

The conference continues. -06c-