PACE chairmen and CE ministers committee concerned over non-prolongation of licenses to foreign radio stations in Azerbaijan

PACE chairman Louise Maria de Puch and chairman of the CE committee of ministers, minister of foreign affairs and cooperation of Spain Migel Angel Moratinos made a joint statement in which they voiced concern over the decision of the National Television and Radio Council of Azerbaijan to halt transmission of foreign radio stations in Azerbaijan, reports press service for the Council of Europe, according to Novosti-Azerbaijan.

"Joining the Council of Europe in 2001, Azerbaijan has undertaken to ensure freedom of speech and independence of mass media, which is an important component of the democratic society.

We consider it regretful that the National Council has recently decided not to prolong licenses of several foreign radio stations", says the information.

It fixes that this may create hindrances on the way to pluralism of information in the country to damage interests of the Azerbaijani population.

"Pluralism is one of the bases of any democratic society and we do hope that the decision will be reviewed and operative measures will be taken to correct the situation. As usually, the Council of Europe is ready to assist to Azerbaijani powers in this issue", says the statement.

On December 30 of 2008 the National Council decided to halt transmission of BBC, VoA and Liberty radio stations in Aezrbaijan on January 1 of 2009.

/Day.Az/