Members of the PACE rejected the C.Strasser`s report on "political prisoners”. We have asked Mr. Novruz Mammadov, Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration, and the Head of the Foreign Relations Department, to share his views concerning this notable event.

– Mr. Mammadov PACE approved one report on Azerbaijan. Another report prepared by Christoph Strasser on "political prisoners” was rejected. We wish to hear your thoughts on this issue.

– Allow me to start by saying that this action of the PACE is a welcoming development. Just decision was made. Although there are certain articles that we are displeased with, in general, there are number of positive aspects to the report prepared by the Monitoring Committee. Co-rapporteurs Pedro Agramunt and Joseph Debono Grech have chosen to engage the Azerbaijani side in the spirit of dialogue and cooperation. They have constantly reached out to state institutions, political parties and NGO`s. Such an attitude ensures objective understanding of the country. Therefore, drafting of quite an impartial report by the co-rapporteurs is no mere coincidence.

As I have said, there are certain aspects of the document that is a source of our discontentment. Azerbaijani delegation to the PACE has forwarded respective proposals. Special emphasis given to the fight against corruption is a positive feature of the report. You are aware that President Ilham Aliyev has outlined this issue as a priority. Therefore, particular reflection of Azerbaijan`s progress in the report of the PACE Monitoring Committee is indeed commendable. In the meantime, it is ought to be recognized that political resolve of the country`s leadership and its determination to irrevocably pursue democratic reforms plays a crucial role. Regrettably, it is this aspect that instills weariness with certain circles. They are in constant search of spurious problems in Azerbaijan, and voice detached from reality ideas about the leadership of the country. Taking this into account, this report may be recognized as positive.

As far as Christoph Strasser`s report is concerned… He has always displayed bias against Azerbaijan, and constantly evaded dialogue. Despite repeated efforts of the Azerbaijani side urging this gentleman to cooperate, to mutually address the issue and to proceed based on real facts, he denied them. All the more troubling is that some European circles have exerted pressure upon the PACE to approve the fake report submitted by Strasser. Their sordid intentions were obliterated thanks to overwhelming support of the European delegates to the PACE rendered to the ongoing democratic processes in Azerbaijan. Notwithstanding, one aspect must not be ignored here.

If there are attempts to somehow justify the actions of Strasser, they only symbolize partial posture of some circles of the West towards Azerbaijan. Apparently, those groups are envious of the achievements of a Muslim state. Their actions are deplorable. They will surely regret their endeavors, because Azerbaijan will never falter on the chosen path of democracy. The state of Azerbaijan will implement comprehensive modernization, develop its economy and attain social-cultural prosperity.

– You have touched upon very interesting and sensitive aspects. What do you see as the main reason for positive changes in the attitude of the PACE with regards to Azerbaijan?

– Pursuit of just causes by Azerbaijan has undoubtedly played its part. Just cause may falter but never shatter. Guided by the national interests, engagement of the country`s leadership has been consistent. PACE`s reluctance to display biased approach towards Azerbaijan is none other than the product of the calculated and resolute policies. The situation was complex just several years ago. However, owing to great efforts of the President Ilham Aliyev, perception of Azerbaijan by the international institutions has changed. Nowadays, people tend to ignore slanderous reports by the likes of Strasser. In the meantime, we are seeing growing number of countries that unequivocally support Azerbaijan. Strasser`s "political prisoners” report was voted against by the MPs from France, Poland, Russia, Turkey, Hungary, Slovenia, Czech Republic and others. They have insisted that criteria for the term "political prisoners” have not been defined. Mr. Strasser has failed to respond to Azerbaijan`s proposals with regards to the definition of "political prisoners”. How can one speak of "political prisoners” under such circumstances?

I should also note that most PACE MPs were surprised by the fabricated list of the "political prisoners”. It even included individuals arrested for common crimes, released from prison and already residing outside of Azerbaijan. People already released from jail! Moreover, Strasser was in touch with just the handful of the country`s NGOs, and did not bother to communicate with the rest of the NGO community. Apparently the list was prepared in line with certain interests. However, member of such a distinguished institution as the PACE cannot afford that. He was obliged to conduct objective investigation. German MP has clearly failed his duties.

There is yet another aspect that deserves emphasis. Strasser`s report was prepared in the Legal Affairs and Human Rights Committee of the PACE. We could expect the assertions made in the report to be legally substantiated. Unfortunately, articles of the report have nothing to do with the law. This aspect deserves contemplation, because these actions may discredit the Council of Europe as an organization and damage its reputation worldwide. I believe this issue should be given a thought.

Rejection of the Strasser`s report by the members of the PACE is not an ordinary event. Azerbaijan is enhancing its performance within the organization. Baku`s activity is growing and so does its leverage over the adopted decisions. This reality has to be recognized. Surely, the issue is not limited to those aspects. Activity has to be further intensified. Members of the delegation representing Azerbaijan in the PACE are quite active. Indeed, this is a demanding process, but no efforts must be spared for the just struggle of the country.

In the meantime, pressure exerted by certain European circles upon the PACE leadership and its individual members are truly lamentable. Europe must uphold the trust and remain just. Otherwise, a legal crisis may "contribute” to financial and economic hardships Europe faces.

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