The US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Affairs Kurt Tong expressed support for the idea of Azerbaijan's accession to the WTO. He stated this on Friday at a press briefing after a meeting with university students ADA. Tong said that during the two days he spent in Baku, he met with officials and representatives of business circles of Azerbaijan to examine the government's actions in the conditions of fall in world energy prices.
"The purpose of my visit is to contribute to the development of economic relations between the two countries and promoting cooperation of private companies," said Tong.
During the visit, issues of financial sector activities, agriculture, trade, the fight against corruption were discussed. Resolution of issues in these areas would help the further development of the Azerbaijani economy, Tong said.
Another purpose of the visit was to get acquainted with domestic infrastructure development of Azerbaijan, its relations with its neighbors.
Tonga was impressed by a new international trade port in Alat, which may contribute to the overall regional development. However, along infrastructure high technology is also necessary. American companies may contribute to this business which are interested to work in Azerbaijan, said Tong. Asked about the increased transparency of the economy and accession of Azerbaijan to the WTO, Tong said that transparency is crucial public sector.
Tong said the recent meeting of Aliyev and members of the American Chamber of Commerce, expressed hope that the meeting will be more regular. Tong noted the need for free discussion of issues of economic regulation.
"Membership in the WTO can bring Azerbaijan greater economic opportunities, including in the field of investment and business. In addition, becoming a WTO member, Azerbaijan will be able to establish good relations with other countries," he said Tong. -03B/06-
Politics
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A candidate in the municipal elections for the 23rd Nasimi-Sabail electoral district, activist Djamila Alisheva, has reported administrative barriers in conducting her campaign. She claims that the district election commission is refusing to provide the necessary forms for her authorized representatives.
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On January 15, the Tbilisi Court of Appeals rejected the appeal of Afghan Sadigov, the founder of the Azel TV website, who had protested his extradition to Azerbaijan. Sadigov’s wife, Sevinj Sadigova, stated that this was the final judicial instance in Georgia making a decision on the case, Turan reported. On the other hand, lawyer Mariam Kvelashvili informed Turan that the defense would continue legal steps to prevent the extradition of Afghan Sadigov. According to his wife, Afghan has been on hunger strike for 117 days, and his health is critical.
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Jamil Hajiyev, a member of the National Council of Democratic Forces, has reported continued pressure from the police. On January 10, during the trial of opposition figure Tofig Yagublu at the Baku Serious Crimes Court, Hajiyev unfurled a banner reading "Freedom for Political Prisoners!"
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On January 15, the Yasamal District Court rejected the motion to change the detention measure for Azer Gasymly, the director of the Institute of Political Management, his lawyer, Agyl Laidj, to Turan. "Azer Gasymly stated during the trial that the charges against him were fabricated and related to his socio-political activities," the lawyer said. An appeal will be filed against the court's decision.
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