Eric Rubin: Democracy is an important part of the U.S. dialogue with Azerbaijan

Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, Eric Rubin,  is satisfied with  the talks with the Azerbaijani officials, saying that the meetings were held at a high level. According to the embassy, ​​he met with Defense Minister, Zakir Hasanov , Deputy Foreign Ministers, Araz Azimov, Mahmud Mammadguliyev , as well as the deputy head of the Presidential Administration, Novruz Mammadov.

At a press conference on 5 December  on the results of these meetings, he expressed a hope that the coming 2014 will be the "year of progress" in bilateral relations.

Replying  a question whether he discussed the issues of democracy with officials in the light of harsh criticism   by  Washington the recent presidential elections in Azerbaijan , Rubin said that democracy and human rights are always part of bilateral dialogue for more than 20 years of relations between the two countries. And it will continue, he said.

"The United States supports the independence and sovereignty of Azerbaijan. In the basis are: economic progress, civil society, defenses and open state," he said.

Referring to the meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan, the diplomat welcomed the resumption of talks at the highest level after a long pause, and expressed the hope that this will activate the peace process.

Rubin also welcomed Azerbaijan's contribution to the operation in Afghanistan, deliveries  to the country and export of goods.  He expressed  a hope for the successful functioning of the transport corridor East-West even after  withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan.

     Asking the question  on the  ability to eliminate the embargo on arms  delivery to Azerbaijan from the USA, Rubin said that he had  met with the new Minister of Defense, and Washington looks forward to enhanced cooperation in the field of defense and security. However, the issues of arms deliveries are  not within  his jurisdiction, said Rubin.—03С06--