Friday Wrap-up: European Parliament resolution, a dangerous hunger strike and Aliyev on help to Ukraine
This week saw Azerbaijan rejecting a European resolution, an activist on hunger strike and Aliyev-Putin meeting.
Azerbaijan dismisses European Parliament’s resolution as “unfounded”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan (MFA) responded to the European Parliament’s resolution on April 25, dismissing it as unfounded. Aykhan Hajizadeh, the head of the Ministry’s Press Office, criticized the resolution for distorting the human rights situation in Azerbaijan.
He accused the European Parliament of routinely adopting biased resolutions without proper assessment. According to Hajizadeh, the calls for sanctions against Azerbaijan only serve to complicate relations between the country and the European Union and emphasized that those advocating for such resolutions seek to divert attention from pressing socio-economic and political issues within European society.
The European Parliament’s resolution focused on urging Azerbaijani authorities to release human rights defender Ilhamiz Guliyev and other political prisoners, including EU citizens. It also proposed considering the suspension of the strategic partnership between the EU and Azerbaijan in energy matters. Despite significant support within the European Parliament, with 474 votes in favor, Hajizadeh and Azerbaijani officials remain steadfast in their rejection of the resolution’s assertions.
Activist Elnur Hasanov’s hunger strike sparks concerns
Elnur Hasanov, an activist of the Azerbaijan People’s Front Party (APCP), reportedly slipped into a coma after enduring a week-long hunger strike, as disclosed by APCP sources. His hunger strike was a protest against what he deemed as unjust arrest and mistreatment by the authorities. Despite mounting concerns about his well-being, the Penitentiary Service has remained silent regarding Hasanov’s condition.
Hasanov’s arrest traces back to allegations of drug possession, an accusation vehemently denied by him. He attributes his detention to his political activism and outspoken criticism of authority figures on social media platforms.
His case draws attention to ongoing debates surrounding freedom of expression and political dissent in Azerbaijan. Activists and supporters highlight concerns about potential repercussions for those who speak out against authorities.
Aliyev clarifies talks with Putin about Ukraine
During a forum at ADA University, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev clarified that his recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin did not involve discussions about the conflict in Ukraine. Aliyev emphasized that talks centered solely on bilateral matters and the situation in the South Caucasus region.
Aliyev affirmed humanitarian aid would be possible but ruled out supplying weapons.
Touching upon Russia’s role in the Caucasus, Aliyev emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation and mutual respect between Azerbaijan and Russia. He highlighted the extensive economic ties and cultural exchanges between the two nations, stressing the significance of regional stability and sovereignty. Aliyev suggested that Azerbaijan’s relationship with Russia serves as an example of “constructive engagement”.