George Kent: We hope to see convicted journalists free

Baku / 02.05.19 / Turan: Before the World Press Day I would like to express my respect for your profession and for what you are doing. The United States believes that free media is necessary for any country, including Azerbaijan. We know that several journalists are currently under arrest. We hope they will be released and all journalists will have the opportunity to work freely. The free media zone will expand and one day Radio Liberty will return to Azerbaijan again," said George Kent, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, at the briefing on Thursday in Baku.

Referring to the details of his visit, he said that he spent three days in Azerbaijan, meeting with officials, including the country's president and foreign minister.

It is noteworthy that Kent spent two days in the north of Azerbaijan in the Khachmaz region, where he was acquainted with USAID projects in agriculture and communicated with farmers. According to Kent, cooperation in the field of agriculture is one of the directions for strengthening ties between the United States and Azerbaijan.

According to him, the bet on the production of hazelnut in this zone is of great importance as a reliable source of income for farmers and an important export item for Azerbaijan, like fruits. -02B-