Azerbaijan wants Russia to pay more for radar
BAKU – Azerbaijan wants Moscow to pay more for the use of a radar station that is part of Russia's warning system against attacks from beyond its southern frontiers, a senior Azeri official told Reuters.
Russia operates the Qabala radar station under a 10-year agreement with the ex-Soviet republic, which stands on the Caspian Sea between Russia and Iran. It expires in August 2012.
"The Russians want us to extend the lease. We are ready to consider cooperation but the conditions should be reviewed," Azeri Deputy Foreign Minister Araz Azimov said in an interview.
When asked what exactly should be changed in the agreement, Azimov said: "They should pay more." Russia is now paying $10 million per year.
"The risk is bigger, the issue is more prominent and the importance of Qabala has increased," Azimov said.
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