Japan Times publishes Azerbaijani diplomat's article

An article by Azerbaijan`s ambassador to Japan Gursel Ismayilzade “Progressive reforms in Azerbaijan contributes the comprehensive development of society” on the occasion of the Azerbaijan`s National Holiday-Republic Day has been published at the English-language newspaper The Japan Times.

The article briefly informed the Japanese readers on Azerbaijan, it`s geographical place, history, national cuisine, especially the country`s Art of Carpet-making. The author also provided information on Azerbaijan`s first independence which was declared in 1918.

“However, it lasted very shortly, ending in 1920. It was the first democratic republic in the Muslim world, with all democratic institutions, including a functioning parliament that gave voting rights to women” the article says.

The article also narrates that Azerbaijan is the largest state in the southern Caucasus region, a rapidly developing, young democracy with a steady, high growth economy and stable political system. As a result of market reforms implemented over the past few years, Azerbaijan has achieved considerable progress in economic performance and attraction of foreign investments.
“Azerbaijan has proved itself as a reliable partner. Our country is a key player in all regional issues and no regional project of strategic importance can be realized without Azerbaijan’s engagement and active involvement. Abundant with natural resources, in particular with hydrocarbons, Azerbaijan plays an important role in the formation of global energy policy. The development of Azerbaijan’s vast oil and gas resources and their delivery through the east-west energy corridor provide a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth and global energy security.”

“2011 the representative from Azerbaijan won the Eurovision Song Contest, Azerbaijan hosted the important event in the capital Baku in high level. Azerbaijan’s election a non-permanent member to the UN Security Council, along with being an indicator of the country’s international prestige, opens up ample opportunities in pursuing foreign policy.

“Indeed, in recent years, new high-standard hotels and resorts have been built throughout the country. As a result of all the work we have done, we are observing a considerable increase in the number of foreign tourists visiting Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan pursues an independent foreign policy based on the principle of sovereign equality of all states engaging in the international relations system. Transparency and predictability are the key features of our foreign policy. Azerbaijan has a keen interest in fostering the peaceful coexistence and good neighbourhood in its region, and beyond by developing friendly, mutually advantageous bilateral and multilateral relations with all countries.”

“Azerbaijan focuses great attention to its relations with Japan. Relations between our countries developed very successfully after Azerbaijan became independent in 1991.”

“At present, Japan is handling the consequences of the March 11 disaster. From the very beginning of this calamity, Azerbaijan has been with Japan and extended its assistance. We believe Japan will overcome this hardship. Once again, I extend my warmest regards to the readers of The Japan Times and wish prosperity and every success to the people of Japan.”


/AzerTAc/