Baku on the Causes of Deterioration in Russian-Azerbaijani Relations

The official representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Maria Zakharova, should first express her opinion on the ongoing efforts to resolve the issues at hand. This was stated by Azer Badamov, a member of the Milli Majlis of Azerbaijan.

He noted that “the release of 13 Russian citizens detained by Azerbaijan could be an important step towards improving relations,” and instead of making such statements, Maria Zakharova should return to the previous events that led to the tension between the two countries and express her stance on the work done to address the issues: “Here we can mention the procedures related to the shooting down of an AZAL aircraft, the events in Yekaterinburg, the undeclared war against Azerbaijanis, and other related issues. The Russian side is indeed making a condition, but we need to look at the root of the problem. There are ongoing repressions and displacements against Azerbaijanis in Russia, as well as the confiscation of their businesses. The primary actors in these areas are the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Federal Security Service, and the Investigative Committee.

Nevertheless, bilateral relations should be based on the sovereignty of the countries and should continue on the basis of mutual respect and benefit. Azerbaijan does not accept a policy of pressure. Bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Russia have developed at a high level over the past year. Even on February 22, 2022, the two countries signed a 'Declaration on Allied Mutual Activities between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation.' However, Russia's biased and unjust attitude towards Azerbaijan has created cracks in the relations between the two countries,” he said.

The member of parliament emphasized that political pressure, bias, and hatred are not the way to return relations to a normal state. The solution lies in diplomacy, high-level official negotiations, and reaching agreements to resolve the issues.