Peter Schider: "I hope Azerbaijan will not repeat Armenia's mistakes during elections"

-Which of the principles of the conflicts resolution -territorial integrity or the right for self-determination-does PACE prefer while assessing the conflict areas?

-As a rule, two parties are represented in a conflict. Each has its own position and it is always difficult to reach a compromise. But the main principles of the Council of Europe in such situations are sovereignty and peaceful way of the conflict settlement. Therefore I think that such conferences, as one held with my participation in Baku and devoted to the legal bases of the conflicts resolution in GUAM, are a good start for the adherence to the principles of the Council of Europe.

-Do you agree that the unilateral declaration of Kosovo's independence, will have a negative influence on the resolution of other conflicts, in particular, that of Nagorno Karabakh?

-Yes, I think such concerns do exist. The European Union should take into account all consequences of the developments on this issue. This threat does exist, it should be a signal for others and all in Europe are responsible for elimination of this threat.

-The situation in Kosovo showed that double standards still exist in the world and decisions, profitable for the West and the United states are adopted in the end. Do you agree with it?

-This issue has been the subject of discussions and, as you know, the opinion of some members of the Union did not coincide with others. In the result, it was decided to follow the general policy of the European Union. This decision is important for the future of the Union, but at the same time it carries the said threats.

-Presidential elections will be held in Azerbaijan in autumn of this year. What PACE expects from this event?

-We expect the elections to be held in line with the due standards of the Council of Europe. I hope the elections will be democratic. This is mainly important for the country, itself. And I think Azerbaijan will cope with this task.

-Some appeal to PACE with a request to impose sanctions on Armenia for violence, committed by the country's authorities against their citizens during presidential elections. Do you think Azerbaijan will be able to avoid such negative developments during the coming elections?

-I think the events, connected with the elections in Armenia, were harmful for the country. And I hope Azerbaijan will be wise and learn from this example.

/Day.Az/