Holding European Games in Azerbaijan testifies to its great international prestige - Aurelia Grigoriu

The upcoming European Games are unprecedented ones, because they are held in the history of mankind for the first time, the chairman of the Public Chamber of Moldova Aurelia Grigoriu told Trend May 6.

The fact that their conduct was entrusted to namely Azerbaijan indicates that the country has great international prestige, is well respected, and is held in a high degree of confidence by the international community, she said.

“It is no secret that the organization and holding activities of such level require huge material costs and human resources efforts,” she said. “We all know that your country had to build the infrastructure for the first European Games almost from scratch. And what did Azerbaijan, the country's leaders, ordinary citizens, is something fantastic! However, personally, I, like a man who frequently visits your country, don’t see anything surprising in it. Having firsthand knowledge about the amazing workability of Mehriban Aliyeva, I did not expect any different result.”

Grigoriu went on to add that the international community, having entrusting Azerbaijan holding the first European Games, has de facto recognized it a country with a high level of economic and political development and demonstrated the highest confidence.

“Small, repulsive “attack” attempts of a number of critics on Azerbaijan will not be able to spoil the image of your country,” said Aurelia Grigoriu. “Today the whole world sees Azerbaijan as a reliable and consistent international partner. Knowing that not every inhabitant understands the meaning and consequences of such events for the country, I would like to note that these Games will remain in the world history. Infrastructure, which was prepared by the whole country, sport complexes, houses, hotels, etc. will be used for the benefit of every citizen of Azerbaijan. Not to mention the expected economic effect, Azerbaijan's image on a global level will rise to a new level. I am sure that a huge number of people will love Azerbaijan after these Games the way I love this country.”

Baku 2015 is the first-ever European Games, an exciting and innovative multi-sport event for the continent that will take place on June 12-28, 2015.

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.

/By Trend/