Israeli ambassador commented on possible closure of Baku-Tel-Aviv air flights

Michael Lavon-Lotem said that compared with other countries Azerbaijan suffered less from the world economic crisis.

“As our countries are coming closer, Israel’s export to Azerbaijan increases. We have more opportunities to cooperate with Azerbaijan and deepen relations in economic sphere. Our geographical closeness is another nuance to increase trade turnover,” he said.

As to possible cancellation of direct flights between the two countries the ambassador said he will hold a number of meetings to solve the problem as soon as he arrives in Baku.

“I think everything will be solved. Tomorrow I will meet with the representatives of civil aviation and Transport Ministry. There is no need to make a scandal,” he said.

Michael Lavon-Lotem also spoke about the prospects of Azerbaijan-Israel relations.

“Ilham Aliyev is a strong and strong-willed leader, who is following his father’s way and pursuing the policy based on the national interests. Though I have not gone to Baku yet, I realize the strategic importance of the country located close to Iran. It is also clear that Baku is not interested in tense relations with Tehran. Therefore I will try to refrain from making any sensational statements. I can only say that Azerbaijan is a strategic crossroad and not the one that can be ignored,” he said.

The new ambassador will arrive in Azerbaijan next week. He will replace Arthur Lenk.

/APA/