Azerbaijan's top diplomat meets British Minister of State for Europe

Mammadyarov said Azerbaijan attaches great importance to relations with the UK. He hailed expansion of Azerbaijan-UK cooperation. Lidington, in turn, said his country puts significant emphasis on Azerbaijan. He highly appreciated Azerbaijan`s role in fight against international terrorism and establishment of peace and stability in Afghanistan.

He underlined the UK was interested in cooperation with Azerbaijan in various spheres, particularly the non-oil sector.

Minister Mammadyarov briefed Lidington on the implementation of oil, gas and infrastructure projects in the South Caucasus region. He noted these projects had strategic importance.
The British minister also inquired about the Armenia-Azerbaijan, Nagorno Karabakh conflict, and said his country supports the OSCE Minsk Group mediation efforts.

Mammadyarov described the Nagorno Karabakh conflict as the “greatest threat” to peace and stability in the South Caucasus. He added the international community must clearly express its position on implementation of the resolutions of the UN Security Council and General Assembly which demand Armenia to stop aggression against Azerbaijan and withdraw its military forces from the occupied territories.

Mammadyarov pointed out Azerbaijan accepts proposals reflected in the “Updated Madrid Principles”, adding official Yerevan`s stance on the document remains indefinite. He added the existing opportunities for peace and stability should be used.


/AzerTAc/