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The Israel – Azerbaijan International Association (Aziz) has criticized the attacks of Europe on Azerbaijan in connection with the European Games in Baku, the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of Azerbaijan Republic reported.

The Association said that Azerbaijan has invited Armenian athletes to take part in the first European Games, despite the fact that more than 20 percent of its territory is currently occupied by Armenia. “Because it was the custom for centuries that sport should be out of politics and politicians should not interfere in the affairs of athletes,” said the message.

“Sport and culture should serve peace and friendship, not in words but in deeds, but, as recent events in the European Parliament show, many tend to use sports for their political intrigues,” the message said.

The Israel - Azerbaijan International Association said that everyone who tries to tarnish the image of the European Games in Baku is driven by envy.

“We, the Israelis, understand it as nobody else. Since its establishment and during all the years of existence, Israel is constantly sharply criticized by most countries and many international organizations.

Israel has overcome all wars over these years with dignity by turning the desert and swamps in to a lush garden. The rapid economic progress raised our country to unprecedented heights. Many leading rich countries can envy this. So, they do this.

The envious people can not accept the fact that Azerbaijan, in a state of war, is moving forward. It is more and more strengthening itself in its region as a political and economic leader.”

"There is no doubt that slander against Azerbaijan will affect the reputation of the country for a long time,” the statement said. “The hatred of spiteful critics is observed. As Winston Churchill said, “A lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to get itspants on.” That's the result. But Azerbaijan must learn to fight for its credibility in the world of double standards by taking into account the example of Israel. "The Jews are alone in this world,” US philosopher Eric Hoffer said about Israel. If Israel withstands, it will happen only through its own efforts. "Proceeding from the experience obtained during its short history, Israel wishes its friend - Azerbaijan to withstand through its own efforts. We wish Azerbaijan successful holding of the first European Games, as well as well-being and future prosperity of Azerbaijani people."

Baku 2015 is the first-ever European Games, an exciting and innovative multi-sport event for the continent underway June 12-28.

There will be a total of 20 sports at Baku 2015: 16 Olympic sports and four non-Olympic sports. More than 6,000 athletes from across Europe will be representing their nations over 17 days of competition.

Baku was awarded the games by the European Olympic Committees (EOC) in December 2012.

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