U.S. 'Deeply Concerned' About Gubad Ibadoghlu's Medical Condition

Washington D.C./18.08.23/Turan:  The United States said on Friday it's 'deeply concerned' about Gubad Ibadoghlu's medical condition, and once again urged Azerbaijan to protect his human rights and fundamental freedoms, TURAN's Washington correspondent reports.

"We are closely following the arrest and detention of Gubad Ibadoghlu. We are deeply concerned about his medical condition," a State Department Spokesperson told TURAN's Washington correspondent.

"The United States remains strongly committed to advancing respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. We urge Azerbaijan to protect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of its citizens, including Gubad Ibadoghlu, consistent with Azerbaijan’s own constitution and international obligations and commitments," a State Department Spokesperson added.

Ibadoghlu, a respected economist who has advocated for democratic principles and socio-economic progress within Azerbaijan, was detained on July 23 outside Baku on a charge of counterfeiting after police claimed they found forged bills worth $40,000 in his abandoned apartment, an accusation that he categorically disputes.

On August 16, the UN Human rights body also expressed its 'deep concern' at reports that Ibadoghlu is seriously ill. He is diabetic and has hypertension. His family says he has been denied access to medicine, and they fear for his health.

"We call on the government to release him and ensure he has adequate and appropriate medical treatment and care," the UN Human Rights said.

Several U.S. lawmakers, as well as civil society leaders, have recently urged the Azerbaijani government to release Mr. Ibadoghlu on humanitarian grounds.

Alex Raufoglu