Baku is committed to a peaceful agenda, but it is right to respond to threats - Dzh. Bayramov

Baku/09.23/Turan: On Thursday, September 7, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov engaged in a significant telephone conversation with Acting U.S. Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, Yuri Kim. The conversation centered on a range of vital topics, reflecting the ongoing dynamics in the region and the bilateral relationship between the two nations.

According to a statement released by the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, the conversation delved into various facets of cooperation between the United States and Azerbaijan, both bilaterally and within a broader multilateral context. The current regional situation was also a key focal point, with particular attention paid to the ongoing process of normalizing relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Minister Bayramov provided the American side with a comprehensive briefing on the prevailing conditions in the region. He underscored concerns over the increasing military and political provocations emanating from Armenia against Azerbaijan and the distortion of facts in the process. Azerbaijan expressed its disappointment with Armenia's efforts to mislead the international community through propagandistic means.

Furthermore, the Azerbaijani Minister conveyed his government's stance on the interference in Azerbaijan's internal affairs. He emphasized the rejection of any obstruction to the process of reintegration for Armenians residing in the Karabakh region. Such interference, Azerbaijan contends, is unjustified and unfounded and is based on claims of a "difficult humanitarian situation" and the existence of a "blockade" in the region.

Bayramov also drew attention to Armenia's and the separatists' failure to adhere to agreements regarding the transportation of goods to Armenian residents of Karabakh via the Aghdam-Khankendi road while simultaneously using the Lachin road. This situation has further complicated the delicate balance in the region.

In spite of the provocative actions and statements emanating from the Armenian side, Azerbaijan expressed its unwavering commitment to advancing the normalization agenda in the region. However, Minister Bayramov firmly underscored that this commitment does not negate Azerbaijan's inherent right to protect its territorial integrity and sovereignty.

The telephone conversation also provided an opportunity for both parties to exchange views on additional issues of mutual interest. —06В-