EU will not remain indifferent to fate of arrested activists – Mikhalko

Baku/15.12.22/Turan: "Civil society institutions are important partners of government structures in any country, and therefore their support and adequate conditions for activity are necessary" - This was stated at a press conference on Thursday by the head of the EU mission in Azerbaijan, Ambassador Peter Mikhalko.

In particular, he emphasized that the space for civil society activities should not be narrowed, and it is necessary to improve legislation in this area. Also, civil society organizations should be provided with access to grants.

"In the course of contacts with all parties, we focus on the situation with civil society. This is not only about access to grants, but also the registration of civil society institutions, the creation of adequate conditions for their activities," the diplomat noted.

"We will continue to focuse on this area, keep this issue at the center of the dialogue and, if necessary, put it on the agenda," Mikhalko stated.

He added that the EU will respond to the arrests of human rights defenders and activists. "Such cases are depressing. This year, such negative facts have taken place, including the end of the year. But we also record positive facts. We see certain positive changes in the "Terter case", - said Mikhalko.

The EU stands up for the acquittal of all those who were innocently arrested and tortured in this case, Mikhalko said.—16D06-