Wendy Morton: Free press and dynamic civil society are the guarantee for development

Baku/09.02.21/Turan: Beyond our strong political and diplomatic links, our relationship is also based on mutually beneficial commercial networks, and our common acceptance of the European Convention on Human Rights, the British Minister of State for European Affairs Wendy Morton stated in an interview with the media, summing up the results of her two-day visit to Azerbaijan on February 8-9.

“Azerbaijan's support for religious diversity is very impressive. Open societies are fairer societies, and they can grow and develop better to meet the challenges of the future. A free press, especially supported by a diverse and dynamic civil society movement, supports this work by providing an opportunity to discuss the key issues of today and tomorrow. More can be done for Azerbaijan to benefit from an open society, and during my visit I met with representatives of a number of different organizations,” Morton continued.

British education has and will continue to make a valuable contribution to Azerbaijani culture. I have visited one of the many learning hubs that the UK funds across the country. These hubs help Azerbaijanis to learn the world’s language: English. This support is particularly targeted at the most vulnerable; the children of displaced persons. British universities and scholarships have created a cohort of young alumni with strong, enduring ties to the UK, who I am looking forward to meeting. British design has changed Baku’s image: our taxis and architecture have had an impact here and I hope Azerbaijan will continue to benefit from the best of British expertise, said Morton.

Our trade links have grown out of the “Deal of the Century” which President Heydar Aliyev signed 27 years ago. Our relationship will develop further in future as Azerbaijan advances towards renewable energy and diversifies its economy. The UK will always support Azerbaijan as a key trade and investment partner, stated Morton.  —06D-