Washington Diplomat: USA Denies Visas for Violators of Human Rights

There are no decisions about the introduction of visa restrictions for Azerbaijani officials from the U.S. government, Turan was told by a diplomatic source in Washington, commenting on Baku media on this topic.

   "But such a question is not right in principle," the source said, adding that Washington has "personal" approach for those who apply for a visa. "The actions of the people whose names are mentioned in cases of gross violation of human rights, are never beyond our attention. We want to obtain their punishment in all parts of the world. Today there is enough legal basis and laws for refusal visas to these persons," said the source.

   With regard to specific restrictions against issuing visas to Azerbaijani officials, there was no agreement between the Congress and the Administration. If they mean "the list Magnitsky" against Russia, the Senate retains the right to amend and supplement the source. He made it clear that the decision on sanctions against a particular officer may be adopted at any time.

   On July 11 senior representatives of the State Duma called on the  U.S. lawmakers to withdraw the document, but this request was ignored.—025C--