OSCE chief calls for progress in Azeri democracy
BAKU – The OSCE chief has said Azerbaijan has both great importance in terms of security and energy and potential to be Europe’s closest partner, but this requires progress in democratic development.
Audronius Azubalis, Lithuania’s foreign minister, said in a meeting with party leaders in Baku on Monday that it was important to ensure political pluralism, freedom of expression and freedom of assembly in the country.
"Free elections are the cornerstone of democracy. But the latest parliamentary elections revealed a need for significant democratic development in this area," Azubalis said.
He noted that democracy cannot be established overnight and is a long process, but these efforts should be consistent.
The meeting, which proceeded without journalists, was attended by representatives of the ruling Yeni (New) Azerbaijan Party (YAP), opposition Popular Front, Whole Azerbaijan Popular Front, Musavat, Civil Solidarity, Liberal and Umid (Hope) parties.
Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention.
Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis.
By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more.
You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper
Thank you!