Azernews.Az

Azerbaijan can be a model for the countries which experienced Arab Spring, US Congressman Gerry Connolly said at a conference dedicated to the 20th anniversary of U.S.-Azerbaijan diplomatic relations.

The event brought together more than 600 participants, including members of the US Senate and Congress, governors of US states, mayors of cities, and senior US officials.

Addressing the panel session, ``Two Decades of U.S.-Azerbaijan Partnership: Lessons from the 20 Years of Working Together``, Connolly pointed out that Azerbaijan is a country deserving attention for its efforts to establish institutions. ``Looking at the Syria events, and looking for the models in this region, we see firstly Turkey, and recently, the Azerbaijan model. These models are efficient, they respect the variety in their community and make efforts to establish secular administrative institutions. At the same time, they respect religious beliefs of others.``

Connolly said developing relations between Azerbaijan and the U.S. are being highly praised in Congress.

``Azerbaijan`s support to the US after September 11 events was really important,`` he said. ``The U.S. hails Azerbaijan`s contributions to ISAF`s [NATO-led International Security Assistance Force] activity, and support for the US troops in other regions. Strengthening friendship, developing ties in humanitarian, economic and foreign policy areas is very important. We thank the Azerbaijani people and government for their position, and consider these relations significant.``

Connolly said he would spare no efforts to expand bilateral ties.

``We have to deepen contacts both between our nations and parliaments. I am sure these strategically important relations will further develop,`` he added.