EU is happy with resumption of contacts with Baku

Talks were held between the government of Azerbaijan and representatives of the European Union in the past two days in Baku at the meeting of the bilateral Subcommittee, which discussed the issues in the field of rule of law, freedoms and human rights and democracy, security, etc.

It was the first such meeting over the past two and a half years, said  in an interview with reporters Dirk Schuebel, the head Division Eastern partnership bilateral of the European External Action Service.

"We are very pleased that can resume cooperation and  activity of the Subcommittee that’s  of great importance to bilateral relations," - he said. Two weeks ago took place a meeting of the Subcommittee  on trade, and then Subcommittee on people to people contacts, the next will be a meeting on energy, environment and transport.

The talks were very intensive and constructive.  There were an exchange of views on numerous issues. However it was not possible to agree on all issues, but the atmosphere was quite positive, said Schuebel.  

The negotiations are conducted in the framework of bilateral agreements on  partnership

EU-Azerbaijan.  Developing  of common positions on all these issues will harmonize points of the future partnership agreement between Baku and Brussels, which then must be approved by the EU on various levels, he noted.

Replying to the question of Turan whether the human rights and democracy are still on the agenda, the messenger of Brussels responded positively. "Questions of respect and compliance with human rights and freedoms were discussed in an open and frank manner. We touched, without exception, every issue that causes our concern. I am pleased with the level of discussion of these issues," Schuebel said.

Asking  about the fate of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline project in the light of decision of the government of Italy, the diplomat did not give a direct answer, saying that the decision of the problem concerns the parties involved, and especially the participants of TAP project, as well as the government of Italy and Azerbaijan. "I am optimistic, and I believe that a solution is found to all problems and Azerbaijani gas, as it was planned earlier, by January 1, 2020 will reach  the territory of the European Union," said Dirk Schuebel. -02В-