Local EU Statement on the 2013 presidential election and support for democracy in Azerbaijan
The European Union Delegation issues the following statement in agreement with the EU Heads of Mission in Azerbaijan and in association with the diplomatic missions of the United States of America and the Kingdom of Norway:
"In the light of approaching elections, the Delegation of the European Union to Azerbaijan expresses its sincere desire and hope for an inclusive, transparent and credible electoral process. As Azerbaijan is currently a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council and as it will hold the Presidency of the Council of Europe next year, the following aspects take on an even greater importance and more public character:
We encourage the government to ensure the necessary conditions for the functioning of a free and open space for democratic political expression and freedom of assembly.
We encourage the government to engage the full spectrum of society in a constructive dialogue, including independent, non-governmental civil society organizations.
We recommend that the government work closely with international partners, especially the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, to support the conduct of inclusive, transparent and credible elections.
We are ready as ever to support the government's efforts and the efforts of civil society representatives who are willing to enter a constructive dialogue with the government about the steps each can take to prepare and provide for a fully inclusive, transparent and credible election process". -0-
Politics
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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Moldova has decided to unilaterally terminate the Moldovan-Russian agreement from 1998 on the creation and operation of cultural centers.
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By the order of the head of state, Rufat Mahmud has been appointed the new head of the historical and architectural reserve "Icheri Sheher" – the historic center of Baku.
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On February 13, the Appeal Court did not satisfy the defense's appeal against the decision of the Khatai Court regarding the arrest of journalist Shahnaz Beylargizi. According to the lawyer, the journalist herself did not participate in the trial due to poor health. The defense intends to submit a petition to replace the arrest with house arrest.
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Azerbaijan will limit 'Sputnik Azerbaijan' and 'BBC News Azərbaycanca' editorial offices. This was reported by the country's pro-government media on 13 February, citing an informed source.
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