Zakhrova Comments on the Blocking of RIA Novosti Website in Azerbaijan After Beglaryan Interview

During a press briefing today, Maria Zakhrova, the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, commented on the blocking of the RIA Novosti website in Azerbaijan. She stated that issues are resolved through bilateral means.

“I always start from the position that issues concerning mass media and their activities should be resolved based on two fundamental principles—compliance with the law and respect for freedom of speech and the rights of journalists, as enshrined in both national and international law,” said Zakhrova.

According to the Russian Foreign Ministry's official representative, existing and emerging problems are addressed by Moscow through bilateral formats with its partners. Zakhrova expressed hope that such precedents will be as few as possible.

“We want to develop our relations, including in the media sector, based on the common necessity to counteract fake news and misinformation. We have issues to resolve collectively with all countries of the world based on these principles,” said the Russian Foreign Ministry’s representative.

It is noteworthy that the website of the Russian state agency was blocked following the publication of an interview with the Prime Minister of Artsakh, Artak Beglaryan. The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry accused RIA Novosti of disseminating statements regarding Nagorno-Karabakh.