Reaction in Azerbaijan to the article in the “Washington Post”

Baku/30.07.20/Turan: Deputy Chairman of the Popular Front Party Seymour Hazi says that the article published yesterday in “Washington Post”, reflects the realities of Azerbaijan. “The Azerbaijani government must analyze the situation and make right conclusions. Should the authorities have been presented in such a negative light on the pages of one of the most influential US publications? Why were these mass arrests necessary?” he told. 

“Before taking any steps, think about their consequences, benefits and harms. Therefore, I consider this article very important, reflecting the realities of Azerbaijan.

We do not need additional problems, especially during the aggravation of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict,” Hazi continued.

In turn, Aydin Mirzazade, head of the political analysis and forecasting department of the ruling New Azerbaijan Party, considers the editorial material of the Washington Post biased.

“Why is the Washington Post interested in Azerbaijan? Why does not it write about the fight against the coronavirus pandemic in Azerbaijan? About the role of Azerbaijan in ensuring energy security in Europe? Azerbaijan is a democratic country, and we see our development and independence in democracy, freedom of expression, creation of  conditions for free assemble. In this regard, I think the claims of the newspaper are unfounded,” Mirzazade told Turan.

“It seems that certain circles in the US are concerned about the independent policy of Azerbaijan and the ability to maintain their position during the events in Tovuz. In this regard, I do not consider this publication  accidental.  

If “Washington Post” informs American readers about the distant Caspian country, then let it talk about the problems, actions and difficulties that Azerbaijan faces on a daily basis,” Mirzazade said.

Political analyst Nasimi Mammadli believes that the restriction of freedoms in Azerbaijan began several years ago. “In fact, restrictions on freedom in Azerbaijan, the government's repressive actions have been going on for a long time. The aggravation began in 2014,” Mammadli said.

The reports and opinions of international organizations, the Council of Europe, the European Parliament and human rights structures on Azerbaijan reflect the real situation.

“I would say that in many cases these assessments are made in a mild form. In general, the situation in Azerbaijan is very deplorable and tends to deteriorate,” Mammadli said.

In the  article “Washington Post” sharply criticized the authorities' unjustified repression against the Popular Front Party. –21В06-