Ilham Aliyev on Foreign Policy Priorities, Karabakh and Military Capabilities

Baku / 10.10.18 / Turan: Relations with Muslim countries are in the focus of attention of Azerbaijan"s foreign policy - this is one of the priorities of Baku"s foreign policy. This was stated by the head of state Ilham Aliyev, speaking at a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers on October 9, following the results of 9 months.

"We will continue our efforts to strengthen unity and solidarity with the Islamic world, which is highly appreciated by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation," he said.

Aliyev called the signing of the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea another important achievement of foreign policy. "I believe that this is a historical document, in which the national interests of Azerbaijan are fully reflected," he said.

A serious step was taken to develop relations with the European Union and the Partnership Priorities document was signed, which reflected many significant issues, including the provisions on the settlement of the Karabakh conflict. At the same time, the declaration adopted at the end of the NATO Summit once again expressed support for the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan.

"All these documents further strengthen our position in the settlement of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict," he said.

Referring to the current stage of negotiations on the conflict, Aliyev said the failure of the Armenian side"s attempts to change the format of the negotiations.

"Negotiations were held, are held and should be held between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The conflict must be resolved within the framework of the territorial integrity of our country. The territorial integrity of Azerbaijan has never been, is not and will never be the subject of negotiations.

I hope the new leadership of Armenia will demonstrate its constructiveness and our lands will soon be freed from the invaders," said Aliyev.

He further spoke about measures to strengthen the country's military potential.

"We will continue to acquire the most modern military equipment. Our country is supplied with the most modern weapons, part of which was shown at military parades, and some were not. From now on, we intend to acquire only the most modern equipment and weapons, and the number of countries wishing to sell us this equipment is growing," said Aliyev. -02D-