American congressmen call on Barack Obama to support Azerbaijan
U.S. Congress members Al Green, Leonard Lance, Mike Fitzpatrick,
Pete P. Gallego and Scott Perry have addressed letters to President
Barrack Obama calling on him to support Azerbaijan, AzerTag state
news agency reported.
In their letters, the congressmen express their support of “a
continued partnership between the United States and
Azerbaijan”.
They say that since regaining its independence in 1991 Azerbaijan
has become a key ally to the United States in a strategically
important region.
“As American foreign policy is challenged by hostile nations
across the globe, it is imperative that the U.S. continues to
cooperate with our loyal allies. Located in a critical location
between Europe and Asia Azerbaijan has aided the US in the fight
against terrorism and in energy security efforts. Following the
attacks on September 11, Azerbaijan was among the first countries
to offer the United States unconditional support in the Global War
on Terror.”
They say that as an active participant in NATO’s Partnership for
Peace program, Azerbaijan has made steadfast contributions to NATO
and coalition efforts in both Iraq and Afghanistan.
The congressmen say: “In addition to supporting U.S. security
interests in the region, Azerbaijan’s strong relationship with the
U.S. has largely been forged through the opening of Caspian energy
sources for development by American companies, which has also
allowed the country to emerge as an essential partner in global
energy security. Since 1994, Azerbaijan extensively developed its
energy resources. The Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline has become a
vital part of delivering Caspian Sea resources to the U.S. and our
allies in Europe and serves as a prime example of the development
of the South Caucasus region.”
They hail Azerbaijan`s “leading efforts” to open up the Southern
Gas Corridor, which will make important contribution to European
energy security.
“Azerbaijan has successfully rebuilt its economy, reduced poverty
to 5 percent, gained the distinction of having one of the most
rapidly developing economies globally, achieved multifold increase
of its gross domestic product. Azerbaijan now accounts for 80
percent of the region’s economy, and has become one of the United
States’ largest partners in the South Caucasus region.”
“Azerbaijan also has a long history of ethnic and religious
tolerance. It is a secular country with a predominantly Muslim
population that has been home to vibrant Christian and Jewish
communities for over a millennium. Azerbaijan continues to be a
role model in this regard for many other Muslim nations.”
The congressmen call on President Barrack Obama to support the
partnership between the U.S. and Azerbaijan.