European Parliament calls on Azerbaijani authorities to respect human rights

Baku/15.03.23/Turan: On Wednesday afternoon, the European Parliament approved the EU-Azerbaijan report prepared by Croatian MP Zhelyan Zobko, who is the rapporteur on Azerbaijan.

At the plenary session and during the debate around the report, the majority of deputies criticized the Azerbaijani authorities for violating international obligations, fundamental freedoms and human rights.

The report notes that the EU, on the basis of cooperation in the energy sector with Azerbaijan in the context of Russia's war against Ukraine, should not turn a blind eye to violations of human rights and the foundations of democracy in Azerbaijan.

The deputies called for lifting restrictions on freedom of expression and the media, ensuring respect for fundamental human rights, and releasing political prisoners.

The report calls for the EU to impose personal sanctions against Azerbaijani officials who flagrantly parry human rights.

The deputies welcomed the contacts between Azerbaijan and Armenia in order to establish peace, but expressed concern about the escalation of violence on the border.

The deputies urged to ensure the fulfillment of humanitarian obligations and the free movement of citizens along the Lachin corridor.—0--