Russia's role in the current phase of escalation of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is quite fair and balanced, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Russia Polad Bulbuloglu told TASS.
"As for its [Russia's] role in the current phase of escalation of the conflict, it is very fair and balanced. We are grateful to Russia for its wisdom and political neutrality, as it befits a responsible great state. We highly appreciate it," he said.
The Ambassador recalled that Russia is one of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chair countries, a member of the UN Security Council, "recognizes the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and does not recognize a certain entity created in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan". "Russia's role is very great. Undoubtedly, it is an important state of the region, with which Azerbaijan shares a common history. Our bilateral relations in all spheres are at a very high level and have the character of strategic partnership", he added.
The high-ranking diplomat recalled that during the tension at the Azerbaijani-Armenian border in July, there were clashes between representatives of the two diasporas in Russia. "We witnessed unpleasant incidents. And now <...> to avoid a repeat of the July clashes, my Armenian counterpart and I had meetings at the Russian Foreign Ministry where the issue was discussed in detail. It was mentioned that it is necessary to prevent clashes between representatives of the two diasporas. In the event of the slightest attempt to show mutual intolerance, they will be harshly suppressed. The importance of conducting joint explanatory work to prevent violations of Russian legislation and eradicate cases of violation of citizens' rights based on ethnicity was emphasized," the ambassador said.
"We are understanding of such actions. And in our statements we call all Azerbaijanis living in Russia to strictly observe the laws of this country and not to give in to possible provocations," he concluded.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Vyacheslav Prokofiev / TASS