Azerbaijan prepares for historic Presidential Elections

TDT | Baku                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Reported by P Unnikrishnan

In a significant milestone marking the aftermath of the conflict, Azerbaijan is gearing up for its first-ever presidential elections, covering the entire territory, including the strategically vital Karabakh region.

Farid Shafiyev, the chairman of the Analysis of International Relations in Azerbaijan, highlighted the historic nature of this electoral process during a press briefing held in Baku. “This election holds international importance,” Shafiyev emphasised.

“For the first time in modern history since 1981, Azerbaijan has regained full control over its entire territory, including areas previously held by separatists. The upcoming presidential elections signify our nation’s symbolic and legal milestone.”

Two years after restoring control over the entire region, the decision to hold elections stems from Azerbaijan’s commitment to stability and development. Shafiyev explained, “During the conflict, we focused on reclaiming control and ensuring security. Now, we are transitioning towards socio-cultural and economic development. Rebuilding the infrastructure and communities devastated by the war is our priority.”

While progress has been made in the peace agreement with Armenia, specific points still need to be addressed, including amendments to Armenia’s constitution regarding residents’ rights in the Karabakh region. Shafiyev highlighted discrepancies in Armenia’s electoral laws, which permit Karabakh residents to contest elections without meeting residency requirements.

A clause needs rectification for the peace agreement to be fulfilled. Addressing concerns about international involvement in the peace process, Shafiyev expressed Azerbaijan’s preference for direct negotiations with Armenia without third-party intervention.

He criticised Western media for alleged double standards and emphasised the need for Armenia to focus on domestic development rather than lobbying efforts. “We have good relations with neighbouring countries like Georgia, and Armenia enjoys strong ties with nations like Iran,” Shafiyev noted, dispelling notions of religious conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

He cautioned against attempts to portray the conflict along religious lines and called for a nuanced understanding of the geopolitical dynamics. Journalists from more than thirty countries are in Azerbaijan to witness tomorrow’s election process.