Azernews.Az

After Azerbaijan holds Eurovision 2012 song contest in a safe atmosphere consistent with international standards, it will easily present itself as ``part of the world`` and a developed and advanced country, presidential aide Ali Hasanov told local news agency Trend Tuesday.

``Azerbaijan has done its utmost and managed to make all arrangements in time to host the Eurovision song contest in Baku. The country, public television and the European Broadcasting Union complied with all obligations they have undertaken -- as it was stated in the fall of 2011 -- to set an example for organizing the contest. At present, the venue of the contest, Baku`s hotels, and the entire infrastructure are ready to receive guests, journalists, spectators, fans of music,`` Hasanov said.

``Azerbaijan is chairing the UN Security Council,`` he continued. ``Azerbaijan holds one of the leading positions in the energy policy of the region and the world. Azerbaijan continues contributing to the world culture and cultural heritage.``

Hasanov added that, unfortunately, some circles, including the Armenian diaspora and foreign media outlets, some foreign NGOs, public and political figures under their influence, have pursued and continue pursuing a slanderous campaign against Azerbaijan, taking advantage of the fact that it is in spotlight.

Hasanov said these forces try to present Azerbaijan in the world as an undemocratic country by spreading provocative reports and fabrications, which have a negative impact on Azerbaijan`s image, and distorting the situation with human rights, freedom of speech and press.

``Their efforts have not yielded and could not yield any results,`` he added. ``At present, tourists and visitors coming to Azerbaijan will be able to personally become convinced that the Azerbaijani society is tolerant. Political pluralism and human rights have been fully ensured in Azerbaijan. The rules of our civil society do not lag behind European ones. After they see Azerbaijan`s magnificent culture, the hospitality of our people, a tolerant society and other values, they, of course, will see that the provocative anti-Azerbaijani publications have been deliberately contrived.``

Hasanov noted that Azerbaijan has never considered conducting the Eurovision song contest as ``a goal in itself``.

``We have considered this as a means to inform the world about the values of the country and the Azerbaijani society, its culture, economic, political and social life,`` he said. ``Young Azerbaijani representatives won the contest and brought it to our country, and we are proud of them. We regret that abusing it, certain circles in Azerbaijan and abroad want to carry out provocations against Azerbaijan, the homeland of these young people. But these actions will be futile.``

The 57th Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Baku Crystal Hall, built near the National Flag Square on the Caspian shore.

The Eurovision 2012 semi-finals will be held on May 22 and May 24 and the final on May 26.

Azerbaijan won the right to host the prestigious European song contest after the victory of Eldar Gasimov and Nigar Jamal (Ell/Nikki) at Eurovision 2011 in Dusseldorf, Germany.