'Azerbaijan proves it as a good friend and ally of the US'

Azerbaijan has not just talked about being a good friend and ally of the US, it has aided US in times of military conflict, Congressman Ted Poe underlined in the conference dedicated to the 20th anniversary of establishment of relations between Azerbaijan and the US.

Ted Poe said: “It’s great to be here. It’s an honor to me to address you this morning. Thank you for inviting me to talk a little bit about some of things of mutual interest. We celebrate the 20th year of relations between the US and Azerbaijan. I represent 2nd district of Texas. Down in Texas on that into border between TX and LA port Arthur- energy capital of the United States. Oil was first discovered there in 1901. Many large US oil companies originated there. What happened there in Texas transformed agricultural community into oil and gas community.
Honor for me to address that issue on Azerbaijan, they like Texas have that energy enthusiasm. It’s common bond with Azerbaijan and their attitude about energy, developing resources. Baku was one of the originally boom town of 19th century. Soviet came in, shut down freedom of capitalism. Mentality of old soviet regime destroyed an industry. I believe that economic, political freedom is one of those God given rights returned to Azerbaijan. Been to the USSR, Eastern Europe understand Azerbaijan how it used to be. Deep down inside wanting to be free and not be oppressed by the government. Our two countries have only grown closer since independence. Azerbaijan is now not just politically, but economically independence. What we need to do - constant cultural exchanges. Student exchanged, so that we can teach students both countries about our nations and that will bring us even closer together. In 2006 BTC pipeline started delivering oil carrying Azerbaijan to Turkey. As an outsider I encourage relationship between Turkey and Azerbaijan that builds better relationship in the region and with the US. Last October a new agreement between Turkey and Azerbaijan on a new transit route is the latest sign economic independence is growing. I believe in competition and alternatives. It’s good for Azerbaijan, good for the region. It is in interest in both countries to diversify European markets so we won’t be manipulated by other actors in the region who want monopoly in energy and delivery. The pipelines built eco-security but also political security for Azerbaijan and that is good for US and for the region. But within all these prosperity we must learn the importance of being visible.

In 1980 30% of world government was democratic, no it’s 60%. Azerbaijan should be commended not just for oil production but democracy as well. That nation takes care of its oil resources for good. This development in Azerbaijan can bring stability to the region. Vital for all democracies including the US, we preserve expansion our basic human rights. We need to have more candid conversations about some of those issue human rights locally and internationally. Azerbaijan has come a long way in the last 20 years. I commend Azerbaijan for not just talking about helping out in the wear on terror, but actually being involved. Azerbaijan should be proud of the fact of doing so, promoting human rights, democracy and concept of freedom throughout the world. We appreciate that as a nation here in the US. I want to congratulate you and hard work, for being here, to develop and increase the bond between our countries”.


/AzerTAc/