Tokyo, 02 July, /AJMEDIA/
The Russian Federation’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Azerbaijan Mikhail Yevdokimov was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).
During a meeting with the ambassador, Deputy Foreign Minister Araz Azimov expressed Azerbaijan’s protest regarding unfriendly actions and steps that harm bilateral relations.
He reiterated deep concern over the deaths of two Azerbaijani citizens and injuries to others due to unlawful actions during raids conducted by Russian law enforcement on June 27 in Yekaterinburg, targeting residences of Azerbaijanis. He noted that Russia’s explanation of the incident contradicts visible signs of severe violence on the deceased and expert findings. The use of terms like “ethnic criminal group” in relation to Azerbaijanis in Russian media during these raids was deemed unacceptable, highlighting instances of ethnic intolerance.
He reiterated Azerbaijan’s expectation that Russia conduct a thorough and objective investigation into the law violations by its law enforcement and hold the guilty accountable. He emphasized that portraying Azerbaijan’s stance as interference in Russia’s internal affairs is baseless.
During the meeting, Russia’s objections regarding measures taken against the “Sputnik-Azerbaijan” office were dismissed as unfounded, stating that these actions were carried out in accordance with Azerbaijani law, with ongoing investigative measures.
Araz Azimov stated that the lack of appropriate action following the downing of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane in Russian airspace late last year, attempts to distort the reality of the incident, and disinformation campaigns against Azerbaijan by some Russian officials and media are unacceptable. Azerbaijan expects Russia to conduct a full and transparent investigation into the disaster, identify and hold the culprits accountable, and compensate victims, as these steps are crucial for alleviating the negative atmosphere in bilateral relations.
The meeting also highlighted that statements and actions by Russian public-political figures and media over the past 4-5 months against Azerbaijan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and people have negatively impacted bilateral relations. The Deputy Foreign Minister let the Ambassador know that Russia’s actions, as outlined above, contradict the spirit of friendship and mutual respect between the two countries, contributing to increased tensions and harming bilateral ties.
The Russian side was urged to take appropriate measures to reduce tensions and eliminate the negative atmosphere in bilateral relations.
