Azeri official: "Monument to Armenian general can harm Azeri-Georgian relations"

APA Bureau in Georgia reports that this intention of Armenians was not welcomed in Georgia. Georgian living in Akhalkalaki, Soso Tetavdze says that monuments to Georgian martyrs haven't been erected yet but Armenians want to make a monument to an Armenian here. "We are to blame," he said.

Akhalkalaki Mayor Artur Yerimyan said they have consulted all bodies of the city and there is no concern for making the monument.

MP and Armenian-language Vrastan newspaper editor-in-chief Van Bayburt says Dalibaldyan was born in Georgia and a good-will man for Georgia but he didn't get the rank of Colonel-general in Garabagh War.

Chairman of foreign affairs committee of the Georgian Parliament, Konstantin Gabashvili says it is necessary to request local authorities and governor's office to take measures if the monument causes standoff in the region.

Azerbaijan's embassy in Georgia spokesman Elkhan Polukhanov told APA bureau that relevant bodies of Azerbaijan were informed of the happenings.

"Azerbaijan's embassy notified Georgian Foreign Ministry orally. We contacted Georgian Culture, Monuments and Sport Ministry. Ministry representative Zurab Chipashvili told us that the monument can be made if the ministry permits. But Deputy Minister Nika Vasheishvili said the decision of local authorities is enough if the place for monument is suitable. Azerbaijan will make an official reaction if it is confirmed that Georgian officials authorize the monument building. We know that Georgia is tolerant toward all nations living here. But permitting construction of this monument can harm friendship between our countries," he said.

Georgian officials didn't take a stance on the issue.

80-year-old Armenian General Dalibaltyan approved the place for his 8-meter-high monument.