The US senator called on Azerbaijan to release journalists and activists
“Recognition of the freedom of speech and free assembly is expected from the Azerbaijani authorities”
US Senator Ben Cardin called on the government to release imprisoned journalists and activists at a time when Azerbaijan is preparing to host the UN climate change conference.
In his statement, he said that it is a responsibility to host a large international conference like COP29. This will be done by recognizing the freedom of speech and free assembly expected from the Azerbaijani authorities.
“But Azerbaijan does not do this, today it is detaining dozens of activists and journalists.” – stated in the statement.
The Senate adds that environmentalist and former deputy Nazim Beydamirli, anti-corruption activist, economist Gubad Ibadoglu, democracy activist Bakhtiyar Hajiyev, human rights defender Ilhamiz Guliyev, independent election observer Anar Mammadli, editors and journalists: Ulvi Hasanli, Sevinj Vagifqizi, There are Nargiz Absalamova, Hafiz Babaly, Elnara Gasimova, Aziz Orujov, activist Tofig Yagublu, lawyer Alasgar Mammadli, economist Farid Mehralizade:
“If Azerbaijan is trying to establish strong relations with the Euro-Atlantic community, I call on President Ilham Aliyev to release those unjustly imprisoned by his government, including Armenian prisoners, those protesting against the harmful effects of the Chovdar gold mine, and social activists.”
He also says that Azerbaijan has the potential to become an important member of the international community and a partner of the United States, and for that, it should first release those who were unjustly imprisoned.
The UN Climate Change Conference will be held in Baku from November 11 to 22.
On September 9, US President Joe Biden nominated Cardi to represent the United States at the 79th session of the UN General Assembly to be held in New York at the end of the month.