Azerbaijan enjoyed robust economic growth in recent years: OSCE secretary general

"The Azerbaijani parliament’s recent decision to help ensure that amendments to the law on NGOs do not restrict the activities of civil society was a positive one in this regard. I also welcome the dialogue that Azerbaijan is pursuing with the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, and I strongly believe we can further cooperate to improve the legal media environment," he said.

"Azerbaijan has enjoyed robust economic growth in recent years, and despite the negative effects of the financial crisis, will continue the positive trend this year. This also represents an opportunity to deepen reforms. I fully support the State Programme on Socio-Economic Development of Regions to accelerate development of the non-oil sector and diversify the economy, achieve balanced regional and sustainable socio-economic development and further improve the welfare of all people in the country," he said.

"I also welcome the dialogue that Azerbaijan is pursuing with the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, and I strongly believe we can further cooperate to improve the legal media environment."

"The Office has enjoyed excellent co-operation with Azerbaijan in a wide range of activities, from community policing to trial monitoring. The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media and the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights can also support Azerbaijan in fulfilling its commitments with respect to media freedom, and to build on the progress shown in last year’s presidential election ahead of the municipal elections in December and the parliamentary elections next year," Brichambaut said.

/APA/