Ilham Aliyev on the Rationale for Early Presidential Elections
Azerbaijan’s President, Ilham Aliyev, elaborated on the reasons for the unexpected presidential election scheduled for February 7, 2024. He highlighted the significance of this election, marking a new chapter after Azerbaijan regained full control over its territories in September 2023. He stressed the importance of this being the first presidential election held across all of Azerbaijan since its independence.
Aliyev noted that his tenure as president has spanned over 20 years, which he views as a significant milestone and a natural point for conducting another presidential election.
Peace Treaty with Armenia: No External Guarantors Needed
President Ilham Aliyev expressed confidence in the forthcoming peace agreement with Armenia, emphasizing the absence of a need for external guarantors. He underscored that as a pact between two sovereign nations, external assistance, while welcome, should not be obligatory.
Aliyev also discussed the ongoing issue of eight Azerbaijani villages under Armenian control, highlighting its regular presence in discussions, including his recent dialogues with the Armenian Prime Minister. He informed that the upcoming commission meeting would address this issue, particularly the delimitation in the Gazax-Tovuz region.
Justice for Khojaly Genocide Perpetrators
The Azerbaijani president assured that those responsible for atrocities such as the Khojaly genocide and acts of vandalism would face justice. He mentioned the arrest of separatist leaders, including former leaders of Karabakh, emphasizing the significance of their capture and the pursuit of justice for their crimes.
France’s Role in Arming Armenia
Aliyev accused France of arming and preparing Armenia for potential conflict with Azerbaijan. He criticized France’s negative stance towards Azerbaijan and its actions aimed at keeping Azerbaijan under pressure.
Border Opening with Armenia Conditional on Zangazur Corridor
The president declared that the opening of the Azerbaijan-Armenia border hinges on the establishment of the Zangazur Corridor. He insisted on unimpeded passage through this corridor for Azerbaijani cargoes and citizens, warning of Armenia’s continued isolation otherwise.
Support for Liberation from French Colonial Influence
Finally, President Aliyev pledged Azerbaijan’s commitment to supporting the liberation of colonies from French colonialism. He drew parallels between France’s actions and the desecration of Azerbaijani cultural heritage, highlighting the similarity between the desecration of Khurshidbanu Natavan’s statue in France and Armenian actions in Aghdam.
