Ambassador Li Litzenberger: US Brings Its Messages in Many Ways

Baku / 20.11.19 / Turan: The United States, as co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, is committed to finding a peaceful solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The US Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Li Litzenberger, said this the day before, answering questions on the air on the diplomatic mission's Facebook page.

“Our activities in this direction are based on the principles of the Helsinki Final Act. I want to highlight three principles: the first is non-use of force or a threat of the use of force, the second is respect for territorial integrity, and the third is respect for the right of self-determination of people,” said the Ambassador, answering the question why the US does not apply sanctions against Armenia occupying the territory of Azerbaijan, but on the contrary, provides her with financial assistance.

According to him, the United States is very interested in resolving the Karabakh conflict. “We are working with both parties to help them find a solution to the conflict. Instead of applying sanctions to either side, we prefer to work with both of them,” he said, noting that the United States provided financial assistance to both sides.

Since 1992, the United States has provided Azerbaijan with financial assistance worth $ 1.5 billion, which was used in various fields.

In particular, support was provided for the development of healthcare, agriculture, the economy, education, security, etc.

"By providing assistance to Azerbaijan, we want to help eliminate the consequences of the conflict and develop the country," Litzenberger said.

Can the US put pressure on the government of Azerbaijan to ensure the rule of law and respect democratic values? Answering this question, the Ambassador said that ensuring the rule of law and respect for democratic values is very important for building a healthy society, economic growth, and improving the well-being of the population.

 “During meetings with colleagues in the Azerbaijani government, I tell them that in order to attract more foreign investment they must respect human rights and the rule of law. This applies to freedom of assembly and expression.

I am absolutely convinced that respect for the constitutional rights of citizens is an additional impetus for the independence, prosperity and economic development of Azerbaijan,” the Ambassador emphasized.

Previously, the United States reacted harshly to repressions against civil society activists and opposition leaders, but recently America’s reaction has been different. Does this mean a change in US policy? In response to this question, the Ambassador said that the United States wants to contribute to ensuring democracy and the rule of law, promoting democratic values ​​in various countries of the world. There are different ways to bring this message to the government and the citizens of Azerbaijan.

 “We can make separate statements when the need arises, as was the case recently. But sometimes it’s advisable to transmit the message privately. In general, I want to say that the United States supports the independent, sovereign and prosperous development of Azerbaijan. In this sense, these values ​​are very important,” Litzenberger said.    —03D06-