BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 16. The
Azerbaijani Military launched a counter-offensive operation, later
referred to as the “Iron Fist”, on September 27, 2020, in response to the
large-scale provocation of the Armenian armed forces alongside the
frontline.
The 44-day second Karabakh battle ended with the liberation of
Azerbaijan’s territories from practically 30-year Armenian occupation
and the restoration of territorial integrity.
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has been
interviewed by Turkish A Haber TV channel on October 16, 2020.
Development presents
the interview.
– Greetings to all from A Haber. The eyes of the entire world are
targeted on the Karabakh area today. Karabakh, which has been
beneath Armenian occupation for 30 years, is experiencing a terrific
tragedy, as a result of regardless of the humanitarian ceasefire, Armenians
proceed to fireside at civilians and the Azerbaijani military. Naturally,
the Azerbaijani military doesn’t depart these assaults unanswered and
dealing heavy blows to the Armenian military.
What’s the newest scenario within the area and what may be
anticipated? We’ll be taught the opinion of the President of Azerbaijan,
Commander-in-Chief Mr. Ilham Aliyev.
Mr. President, we categorical our deep gratitude to you, in
explicit, on behalf of A Haber. Thanks very a lot for receiving
us.
– Thanks.
– Mr. President, after all, we’ll begin our dialog with
the scenario within the area. Yesterday Armenia fired on civilians
but once more. In Tartar, a cemetery was fired on and three of our
Azerbaijani brothers turned martyrs. What’s your evaluation of
this assault?
– That is one more manifestation of Armenian fascism.
Normally, at any time when they’re defeated on the battlefield, they fireplace
on civilians. We noticed this in the course of the first Karabakh battle. It was our
loathsome neighbors who dedicated the Khojaly genocide.
This time, seeing their helplessness in entrance of the Azerbaijani
military on the battlefield and their incapability to withstand us within the
occupied lands, they began concentrating on civilians once more. Our
residents died because of this dastardly assault, each in Ganja
and on the cemetery in Tartar yesterday… This can be a place the place
individuals go for funerals, it’s thought-about sacred to any individual. However
apparently there may be nothing “sacred” for our loathsome neighbors.
This can be a crime towards humanity, which as soon as once more demonstrates the
predatory nature of Armenia. It additionally exhibits that such dastardly
assaults can’t drive us to deviate from our path, they can’t break
the desire of the Azerbaijani individuals. We’ll proceed to revive our
territorial integrity.
– After all, Azerbaijan acts very rigorously and precisely in
the difficulty of civilians. Till at present, not a single civilian has been
damage among the many Armenians. Nevertheless, to date 46 of our Azerbaijani
brothers have change into martyrs. Why does the West stay tight-lipped
over these massacres?
– Sadly, civilian casualties are persevering with, there are
already 47. A complete of 222 civilians have been injured, about 2,000
homes have been both utterly destroyed or critically broken.
I’ve already stated that we are going to avenge these individuals on the
battlefield. We’ve by no means opened and are nonetheless not opening fireplace on
civilians although there have been assaults on Ganja
and Tartar. Right this moment, from 6 to eight am – it’s 9:10 now – greater than 220
shells fell on Tartar, Aghdam, Goranboy and different districts. So
these heinous assaults proceed. Their fundamental aim is to kill
civilians, sow panic and worry among the many inhabitants of Azerbaijan,
cease us and obtain their soiled intentions. However they’re seeing
that this doesn’t work out, and regardless of what number of shells fall,
the residents of Azerbaijan proudly reside on their land and endure
all these difficulties. They’re united round one aim – to return
Karabakh, to lift the flag of Azerbaijan in all of the occupied lands
and to revive our territorial integrity.
As in your second query why the West is silent, we noticed this
in the course of the first Karabakh battle too. Armenia unleashed aggression
towards us, occupied our lands, dedicated genocide towards our
individuals, however sanctions have been utilized towards Azerbaijan. At that
time, in 1992 and 1993, the Western media fashioned such a notion
that Azerbaijan was an occupier and aggressor, whereas Armenia was a
sufferer of aggression. We’re seeing this even at present on a smaller
scale, as a result of it’s now not doable to disclaim and conceal the
reality.
– Mr. President, at the moment, in 1993, particularly, in
November, a ceasefire was additionally introduced. And it was additionally violated
by Armenia, which massacred individuals. Right this moment Armenia needs a ceasefire
once more. What’s the objective of the ceasefire – to cease the advance
of the Azerbaijani military?
– You understand, that is their tactic. Armenia requested a ceasefire.
Satisfied that they may now not defend the occupied lands on
the battlefield, to carry on to them, they requested a ceasefire. We
additionally acquired such an enchantment – you realize that Russia has undertaken
this mission – and stated {that a} ceasefire might be declared for
humanitarian functions, for the trade of our bodies and prisoners.
Nevertheless, on the identical time, the Moscow assertion indicated that it
was essential to resume negotiations on the substance of the difficulty.
As well as, the format of the negotiations ought to stay
unchanged. However apparently they wished to reap the benefits of the
ceasefire. Lower than a day later this dastardly assault on Ganja was
carried out. After that, they started to strike at our different cities
and, in reality, grossly violated the ceasefire. So that is their
tactic. Clearly, they wanted a ceasefire so as to collect
power, take mobilization measures and launch new assaults on us,
as a result of after this ceasefire, they tried to occupy the settlement
of Hadrut once more and attacked it 3 times. They usually have been defeated
all 3 times. Their intention is to return the lands they misplaced
that don’t belong to them and to proceed their aggressive
coverage.
– By the way in which, false propaganda is at the moment being carried out.
They declare that Hadrut remains to be with them, they can’t settle for
it.
– Sure, they’re nonetheless engaged on this false propaganda. The
Azerbaijani flag has been flying in Hadrut for a number of days now.
The overwhelming majority of the hills adjoining to Hadrut are beneath our
management. If Hadrut had not been taken, it might have been
not possible to take the villages of Khojavand district. We moved
there solely from the Hadrut path.
– Mr. President, for the reason that announcement of the humanitarian
ceasefire, transport planes have been always delivering
missiles from Russia, particularly, to the Yerevan airport. This,
in essence, is a criminal offense. Particularly, you talked concerning the closure
of borders with Iranian President Rouhani and concerning the supply of
missiles with Russia. These weapons are supplied freed from cost.
What would you prefer to say to Iran and Russia on this regard?
– We do not need any details about the cargo of weapons
from Iran to Armenia. Quite the opposite, I can say that Iran and
Georgia have closed their airspace and land roads for the
transportation of weapons to Armenia. On this regard, we wish
to reiterate our gratitude to the Governments of Iran and Georgia.
Based on our info, weapons are being smuggled throughout
Georgian territory by industrial and cargo planes.
Armenia has not too long ago bought one airplane. Based on our
info, it purchased it for $30-40 million. It was bought by
rich Armenian businessmen dwelling in Russia – Karapetyan,
Abrahamyan and others. They’re sending Armenians dwelling in Russia
to battle towards us as mercenaries. On the identical time, the acquisition
of this plane, Il-76, allowed Armenia the chance to smuggle
weapons into its nation. Each time you ship navy merchandise,
it’s essential declare them. Their statements point out that it is a
civilian cargo however the airplane transported anti-tank weapons “Kornet”
and “Konkurs”, air protection techniques “Igla”. On the identical time,
in accordance with the knowledge we’ve, they’re smuggling the
missiles bought in Russia. Due to this fact, we addressed the
Worldwide Civil Aviation Group and requested it to
examine this concern and cease it. That is thought-about an
worldwide crime. Smuggling weapons to Armenia is
unacceptable.
Russian authorities have additionally advised us that Russia doesn’t ship
weapons to Armenia. Due to this fact, we expect that Armenian businessmen
dwelling in Russia, rich individuals illegally purchase these weapons at
some navy factories and ship them to Armenia. The investigation
on this path is ongoing.
– And now, Mr. President, let’s “go” to the frontline. Of
course, the peoples of Azerbaijan and Türkiye stay up for good
information from the frontline. I need to present this on the map. Right here we
are speaking about an space of 18,000 sq. kilometers. This
territory has been beneath occupation for 30 years. What number of thousand
sq. kilometers of this territory have been liberated to this point? At
current, the Azerbaijani Military is advancing and delivering crushing
blows. We’re saying that the Armenian military has misplaced half of its
power to this point. How a lot by way of figures did the Armenian
military lose? Are you able to present any figures on this connection, Mr.
President?
– It’s not so troublesome to calculate the realm of the liberated
lands regardless that the determine modifications every single day. I knowledgeable the
Azerbaijani individuals concerning the liberation of six new villages
yesterday. Extra villages have been freed on the day past. This
course of continues. We will say that we liberate new territories and
new strategic heights every single day. Due to this fact, these numbers are
altering. However the info supplied to this point provides grounds to say
which districts have been liberated.
This map, for instance, doesn’t specify Hadrut. Hadrut is already
with us. The overwhelming majority of villages round Fuzuli are with us.
Now we see Fuzuli in entrance of us. As well as, we’ve moved
ahead within the southern path. Within the north, we even have
positions on Murovdag. We’ve Sugovushan. So we’ve made nice
strides in all areas, and this course of continues. I imagine and am
certain that the Azerbaijani persons are carefully following this,
particularly the residents of the villages we’re liberating from
occupation. For them, these are historic days, after all.
– So how a lot in sq. kilometers on common?
– I’d not need to say that as a result of it is a determine that
modifications each day. Our aim is to completely restore our territorial
integrity and hoist the Azerbaijani flag in all occupied lands.
– Are you able to title the losses of the Armenian aspect in figures?
– These numbers are additionally altering each day. Greater than
200 tanks have been destroyed and 33 tanks have been taken as
booty. They’re in good situation and they’re with us. Thirty-five
items of “OSA” air protection techniques have been destroyed. In
addition, two very trendy “S-300” techniques have been destroyed.
– They’re very costly.
– Sure, they’re very costly. One other very costly air
protection system, “TOR”, has additionally been destroyed. Roughly 170
vehicles have been disabled or are in our possession. Additionally, 16
command facilities have been destroyed. Based on our calculations,
throughout today the Armenian military suffered injury value nearly $2
billion, and it retains on rising. I appealed to the management of
Armenia: observe the ceasefire, present us with a timetable and
depart our territories in order that this battle stops and you’ll hold the
remaining weapons. In any other case, if it goes on like this, we’ll
destroy all their weapons.
– What number of human losses does Armenia have, Mr. President?
– Their human losses – I imply the info revealed within the press –
are over 600 individuals. However in accordance with our knowledge, their losses are
a number of occasions larger.
– So Armenia is hiding its losses.
– After all.
– However the scenario on the entrance is completely different.
– If 200 tanks have been destroyed to this point, then you may see
what determine it involves by counting their crew. As well as, rely
the losses on the battlefield, the personnel of the command facilities
and the crews of different installations. There’s footage of the
destruction of their gear, so I’d not like to offer any
particular figures. I’m at all times in favor of offering precise figures,
not unverified knowledge. However their losses are certainly above 600.
– Mr. President, can we speak concerning the destruction of about half
of their weapons?
– We do not know what number of weapons they’ve. However the query
arises as to the place they get the cash for the weapons. Everybody
is aware of the finances and overseas trade reserves of Armenia. In simply
17-18 days, their weapons value $2 billion have been destroyed, and
they’ve extra. That is the statistics of weapons destroyed within the
occupied territories alone. What number of extra weapons are there in
Armenia? Discover what number of weapons they’ve. The place did they purchase it?
The place did they get the cash? After all, they do not have a lot
cash. So that they got it without cost.
– Mr. President, 18 October is a vital day – Independence
Day of Azerbaijan. The individuals of Azerbaijan count on excellent news from
you on today, Inshallah. Will you announce any excellent news about
Karabakh? Would you prefer to share it with our Turkish and
Azerbaijani brothers on A Haber?
– You understand, it is a actually historic day as a result of Azerbaijan
gained independence for the second time within the twentieth century. The
first years of independence have been very troublesome and tragic for us.
We might have misplaced our independence – as we did in 1920 when
independence lasted solely two years and the Azerbaijan Democratic
Republic fell. This time, Armenia’s aggression towards Azerbaijan
and, on the identical time, civil strife inside the nation led to a
main disaster. Solely after nationwide chief Heydar Aliyev got here to
energy in 1993 did the scenario stabilize and Azerbaijan
confidently launched into the trail of improvement.
Due to this fact, 18 October is a really important date for us. However
throughout this era, throughout these 17-18 days, I’ve by no means set the
activity for the military to take this location on this or that date.
As a result of battle has its personal guidelines, its personal legal guidelines. The important thing factor for us
is to revive our territorial integrity. It doesn’t actually matter
after we share the excellent news – on the seventeenth, 18th or nineteenth. It’s
vital that we do that, that we obtain this. On the identical time,
we are able to and we most likely will present details about the liberated
villages at present, however an important factor is to occupy strategic
heights. As a result of by taking these heights, we acquire management over a
wider territory, which creates situations for a extra profitable
counter-offensive operation by the Azerbaijani military within the
future.
– The center of Karabakh, the apple of its eye is Shusha. The
Azerbaijani persons are ready for information about Shusha. Inshallah,
are you heading for Shusha?
– We’re headed for all of the territories. Each inch of the
occupied lands, each metropolis is pricey to us, it’s native for us. For
me, all villages and cities are equally priceless. However you realize very
effectively that Shusha occupies a particular place within the hearts of the
Azerbaijani individuals. That is our historic metropolis, a hotbed of historical
tradition. Shusha gave the Azerbaijani individuals many very gifted and
excellent personalities. After all, with out Shusha our mission
can be half performed. Naturally, this concern has at all times been on the
agenda in the middle of discussions.
You understand, there have been many questions on the negotiating desk in
the earlier interval. Some recommendations have been that Azerbaijan ought to
get again 5 districts and be content material with that, whereas the remainder
ought to stick with the Armenians. In different phrases, we have been advised that
we wish the whole lot without delay, however this will’t occur and that there
should be a compromise and so forth. However I by no means agreed to that. It
can be utterly incorrect to get 5 districts and depart the remainder
for later, indefinitely. Due to this fact, at completely different phases, mediators
and a few worldwide organizations puzzled why Ilham Aliyev did
not conform to this. We’re telling him that 5 districts are being
returned now, though Armenia, because it seems now, didn’t need
to return these 5 districts both. However there have been such
proposals. Nevertheless, my place has at all times been that with out Shusha
our mission can be half performed. Due to this fact, after all, the
liberation of Shusha occupies a particular place amongst our objectives. We
should aspire to this. We should obtain this. When will that
occur?
– Quickly, Mr. President?
– The close to future will present.
– Inshallah. Your late father most likely bequeathed to you to
liberate Karabakh. By the way in which, I wish to study his
will. You’re really fulfilling it now. On behalf of the Turkish
individuals, we congratulate you and the Azerbaijani individuals. What do you
need to say about your father’s will?
– You understand, I’ve at all times tried to be true to my father’s path.
In 2003, when the Azerbaijani individuals trusted me for the primary time,
I stated earlier than the election that should you trusted me, I’d stay
dedicated to the political course of Heydar Aliyev and would comply with
his path in all spheres. I’m glad to have stored my phrase. Right this moment, the
fast and profitable improvement of Azerbaijan, the good respect
we get pleasure from within the worldwide enviornment, the answer of social,
financial and different issues inside the nation, the implementation
of enormous initiatives are, after all, a continuation of Heydar Aliyev’s
path.
The world is altering, after all. The stability of energy within the
world is altering. Right this moment’s world can’t be in comparison with what it was
in 2003 however our strategic objectives stay unchanged: to strengthen the
independence, to stay dedicated to an unbiased coverage, by no means
to rely on anybody, to not bow our heads to anybody, to protect
and shield our dignity, and to revive our territorial integrity.
This was my father’s will in a nutshell.
After all, the restoration of territorial integrity is our
primary aim. With a view to obtain this, we’ve made nice
effort – political, financial, diplomatic and navy. Our military has
really been fashioned anew. The entire world can see the potential of
our military at present. Based on the knowledge supplied to me,
navy specialists from some developed nations are already
learning our expertise. I’m certain this expertise can be
mirrored each in books and in analysis papers. Due to this fact,
remaining dedicated to my father’s path, we’re fulfilling this
honorable mission. Inshallah, we’ll full it to the top.
– Azerbaijan has created a really sturdy military. There was not even
an Air Pressure within the first Karabakh battle however now there’s a highly effective
air drive, a powerful military. After all, TB2 strike drones have change into
a serious drive within the area. You bought them from Türkiye and
are at the moment utilizing them. How did the assault drones change the
course of the battle?
– They modified it rather a lot. You understand, in 30 years Armenia constructed
very highly effective engineering fortifications alongside your complete contact
line within the occupied territories, carried out main engineering and
strengthening work. In some locations, they’ve 4 strains of
protection. Massive trenches have been dug and different engineering work was
carried out. There are massive concrete slabs, shelters and bunkers
there. The terrain of the area is such that it a pure
fortification is itself as a result of it is a mountainous space, we’re
going from the underside up. It is extremely troublesome for any military. It’s
a really troublesome and dangerous activity. Due to this fact, the work we’ve
carried out on this path required nice heroism, after all.
Exact destruction of enemy gear required unmanned aerial
automobiles. We’re very glad that the developed military-industrial
complicated of fraternal Türkiye has begun the manufacturing of those
glorious assault and traditional UAVs. Azerbaijan is the primary
overseas state to have acquired them from Türkiye. As I’ve already
stated, Armenian navy gear value $1 billion has been
destroyed with the assistance of Turkish drones alone. One other billion
value of kit has been destroyed by our different navy
amenities. So this has vastly modified the course of the battle.
– You might have additionally talked about tunnels within the area, about
echeloned protection. The truth is, we noticed this in the course of the operations in
Syria. These are the strategies utilized by PKK and PYD. The identical strategies
have been used on this area for 30 years. From this level of
view, does the opposing aspect obtain any help from PKK and
PYD?
– Possibly. Even earlier than these clashes, we had info that PKK
had arrange a camp there as a result of, as you realize, Nagorno-Karabakh was
an uncontrolled territory. There was no worldwide management
mechanism there. Each Armenia and Azerbaijan are members of many
worldwide organizations. There’s a management mechanism and
monitoring, however it is a grey space, i.e. an uncontrolled
territory. Due to this fact, smuggling and drug trafficking thrived there,
workout routines of unlawful armed teams have been held, and there have been PKK
camps. It’s not dominated out that they’ve additionally performed a task within the
development of those fortifications.
– What number of RKK camps are there within the area?
– We can’t say this as a result of they don’t stand in a single place,
they’re at all times on the transfer. However there have been fairly a couple of of them. In
any case, we had this info even earlier than the most recent clashes.
Right this moment, there are suspicious individuals amongst those that have been killed on
the Armenian aspect. There are individuals with Canadian and Lebanese
passports. There are individuals who can’t be recognized. However it’s
sure that they aren’t Armenian troopers. In different phrases, they
are mercenaries.
– Armenia is finishing up missile assaults from its territory. If
it continues to assault from its territory, do you’ve got the proper to
conduct operations on the territory of Armenia?
– No, we aren’t serious about that. I’ve repeatedly stated
that we’ve no navy targets on the territory of Armenia. We
haven’t any intentions of shifting the navy operation to the
territory of Armenia. We don’t set our sights on the lands of
different nations. We merely perform these operations inside the
borders of the nation, inside the framework of Azerbaijani lands
acknowledged as such by worldwide organizations and the world
neighborhood. Thus far we’ve not crossed into to the territory of
Armenia.
I have to additionally say that an assault was launched on us on the
Armenian-Azerbaijani border in July. The armed forces of Armenia
managed to penetrate into Tovuz district and a few of its
territories. We threw them out of there and have been capable of defend our
lands. We threw them again. After that, we might have crossed the
border. In different phrases, there have been no critical obstacles in entrance of
us. These battles already present that if we’ve managed to interrupt
via from right here, it might have been a lot simpler to do it there
as a result of there aren’t any such fortifications there. However we didn’t do it
as a result of we thought it might be incorrect. We defend ourselves on our
lands and should expel the occupiers from our lands. But when they
proceed to make use of such harmful weapons as “Tochka-U”, “Iskander”,
“Scud” and others from the territory of Armenia, simply as they
struck at Ganja from the Vardenis area of Armenia, then this can
change into a reliable navy goal for us. Everybody ought to know
this.
– You’re receiving messages of help from Türkiye and
Pakistan. Particularly, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has stated,
“We’re prepared to offer any help.” On this context, will you
ask Türkiye and Pakistan for navy help?
– No. We’ve no such ideas. Türkiye and Pakistan are the
first nations to help us. After them, the variety of such
nations started to develop. Following this, Afghanistan expressed its
open help. Assist was additionally voiced by Bosnia and Herzegovina and
different nations. Fraternal Türkiye supplied the most important help.
From the very first hours, my brother, pricey President Recep Tayyip
Erdogan said very clearly and decisively that Azerbaijan shouldn’t be
alone and Türkiye is subsequent to us. This inspired us much more. However
there may be no query of navy help. It’s not needed.
The false info invented by the prime minister of Armenia is
meant to mislead the worldwide neighborhood, after all. For
instance, he stated in an interview with Russian tv yesterday
that Türkiye, Pakistan, troopers from Syria and Lebanon have been
combating on the aspect of Azerbaijan. All it is a lie. It’s not
too troublesome to reveal it.
On the primary day of the clashes, they claimed {that a} Turkish
F-16 airplane had shot down an Armenian Su-25. We stated – present
proof. They might not. Then everybody was satisfied that it was a
lie. They don’t seem to be speak about it any longer. Now they’ve invented
a brand new lie that Pakistani and Turkish troopers are combating for us.
Allow them to produce proof. There’s none. The Armenian aspect is
primarily attempting to decrease the power of the Azerbaijani military,
to recommend that Azerbaijan couldn’t have performed it alone. Secondly,
one other of his lies is that these clashes allegedly have already
gone past the area and became a extra international confrontation.
That is additionally a lie. We obtain solely ethical and political help
from Türkiye, Pakistan and different fraternal nations.
– Mr. President, who’s frightened concerning the friendship and shut
ties between Türkiye and Azerbaijan?
– Those that do not like us, those that usually are not within the
energy of Türkiye rising.
– Who?
– That is well-known. There are such circles in lots of nations.
These are Islamophobic circles. Sadly, Islamophobia is
rising in Europe at present. The angle in direction of refugees from poor
nations can also be apparent. Due to this fact, Islamophobic events at the moment are
receiving parliamentary seats in a number of European states. Radical
fascist events are getting extra votes. This can be a very harmful
pattern, to begin with for Europe, as a result of it is a tendency that
paves the way in which for racism, discrimination, xenophobia and
Islamophobia. On the identical time, together with Islamophobic forces,
there are circles involved about Türkiye ‘s power. Erdogan’s
Türkiye shouldn’t be the Türkiye of 20 years in the past. We and our brothers
dwelling in Türkiye know this. Türkiye enjoys nice authority within the
world at present. No-one can dictate something to Türkiye or drive it to
do something. Türkiye defends its pursuits on the planet, the
pursuits of its allies, builds its safety the way in which it needs and
enjoys authority within the worldwide enviornment. Not a single concern in
the area may be resolved with out the participation and consent of
Türkiye. Syria, Libya and the Mediterranean have demonstrated this.
So these are the forces that aren’t within the energy of
Türkiye rising and are frightened about it. That is pure.
– Mr. President, you stated that unity provides brings about
power. Why is it vital for Türkiye to be sturdy?
– It will be significant for the Turkic world as a result of it’s a nice
energy that makes us stronger too. I’ve spoken about this many
occasions – each in Türkiye and in Azerbaijan. When my pricey brother
President was right here, I stated that the Turkish-Azerbaijani unity
brings stability to the area. If these precise messages had not
come from Türkiye within the first hours of the clashes, then maybe
others would have intervened in these issues. Türkiye ‘s messages
stopped everybody: Azerbaijan shouldn’t be alone. Türkiye can be subsequent to
Azerbaijan till the top. After all, the Azerbaijani-Turkish unity
has already became a really critical geopolitical issue, and
it is a constructive issue. Our unity shouldn’t be aimed on the pursuits
of any nation. We merely defend our pursuits and going our personal
manner. Let no-one intrude in our affairs and don’t poke their nostril
into our inside points. That is what we wish. The place did Türkiye
intrude earlier than? Nowhere! Whose affairs did Azerbaijan intrude?
No-one’s! We’re merely saying: do not contact us, step apart. We’ll
be mates and companions, we’ll cooperate, however let everybody go
their very own manner. We would like this and we’ve the proper to take action.
– Is it doable to discover a manner out within the settlement of the
Karabakh drawback on the negotiating desk with out Türkiye ‘s
participation?
– Türkiye is already de facto on the negotiating desk. I’ve
already stated that. This can be a actuality. Türkiye is discussing this
concern with nations situated in one other area at present. You additionally know
{that a} phone dialog occurred between the presidents of
Russia and Türkiye. There have been negotiations between the ministers
of overseas affairs and protection. On the identical time, high-ranking
officers of Türkiye have been involved with their colleagues
from Iran and different nations. Due to this fact, Türkiye is de facto right here.
When the Minsk Group was established in 1992 – Türkiye is already a
member of it – it didn’t change into a co-chair for causes I don’t
know. In different phrases, we wished Türkiye to be a co-chair from the
very starting. However Türkiye itself didn’t go for that on the time.
If it had wished to try this, I feel it might have change into a
co-chair. For this reason I’m saying that there’s a nice distinction
between at present’s Türkiye of Erdogan and the then Türkiye. If it had
been a co-chair, this concern would have been resolved way back.
Due to this fact, we’re saying that this concern can’t be resolved with out
Türkiye. I’m not saying that the Minsk Group ought to be consigned
to historical past. No, allow them to work too, regardless that they haven’t
reached any lead to 30 years. However to go away Türkiye exterior this
course of is each incorrect and not possible.
– Mr. President, how would you assess the place of France, a
co-chair of the Minsk Group?
– You understand, I feel the most recent statements of France have been
constructive. On the identical time, my final phone dialog with the
President of France was additionally very constructive. After all, France as a
co-chair ought to be impartial. I’ve already stated that. Any nation
can have particular ties with one other nation. In different phrases, on the
nationwide degree any nation is free. No-one can object to that however
co-chairmanship is a special mechanism. This imposes a terrific
duty on co-chair nations. Due to this fact, inside the
framework of this mandate, they should be impartial. I feel that the
actions and approaches of France at present are constructive.
– Russian International Minister Lavrov made a press release saying that
they may ship navy observers to the Karabakh area. Would
you conform to this?
– You understand, on the identical time the workplace of the President of
Russia said that this was doable with the consent of each side
– Azerbaijan and Armenia. In different phrases, that is one thing that
speaks for itself. First, each events should conform to this.
Secondly, the basic ideas – and I’ve already expressed
my place on this matter – do present for the dispatch of
peacekeeping forces to the area however solely on the final stage. The
lands should be free of occupation, 5 districts should be
returned to us, then two extra, after which the Azerbaijani inhabitants
should return to Nagorno-Karabakh and Shusha. In any case this
peacekeeping forces might come. Due to this fact, it’s too early to speak
about it at present. Third, what nations can be represented on this
peacekeeping drive? This should even be agreed by each events.
In the course of the negotiations, there have been no discussions on this concern. I
imagine that the assertion of the workplace of the President of Russia
is absolutely justifiable. Each events should conform to this. You should
conform to this and supply a timetable. Right this moment, when there are lively
clashes, it’s a little too early to speak about it.
– Certain. There are ample minerals in Armenian-occupied Karabakh.
We all know that there are gold deposits in Kalbajar. These gold
deposits are literally the primary concern for Armenia.
– True however an important factor is their everlasting hatred of
us. Armenia is pursuing a coverage of fascism. They instill hatred
for Türkiye and Azerbaijan, describe Turks as enemies to his
youngsters. They poison the brains of their individuals. So that is what
lies on the coronary heart of Armenia’s occupation coverage. That is the primary
concern. In different areas too, there are fertile and glorious lands
for each crop and livestock manufacturing. They’re exploiting them.
There are gold deposits in Kalbajar. They’re illegally exploiting
them. We’ve despatched letters to all the businesses that assist them in
this matter and make investments there.
In my statements earlier than the beginning of those clashes, I stated that
we’re warning all these overseas firms for the final time –
both stop your actions or we’ll sue you the place we may have
the ultimate say. As a result of their actions are unlawful. Armenia sells
the gold mined there overseas and makes cash. They transport the
pure sources extracted there, the merchandise of our land to
Armenia. Due to this fact, there are various goals right here. The primary factor
is to protect these lands without end beneath the yoke of Armenia. However
they may not obtain this both.
– Mr. President, you stated that Soros is Pashinyan’s father.
– Sure, that is true.
– It seems that Azerbaijan can also be combating with Soros in
the area.
– With Soros too. The truth is, as I stated earlier, once I speak about
Soros, I imply not solely George Soros. This can be a idea. This
motion is damaging and predatory. This can be a colonial motion.
Have a look at the photograph of Pashinyan with Soros. What a disgusting photograph.
It’s on the web. They stand there, their our bodies pressed
towards one another. A shameful photograph. They each snicker, each have a
smile on their faces. This photograph really exhibits who Pashinyan is.
As a result of Soros teams performed a giant function in organizing the coup in
Armenia and Pashinyan at all times took an anti-Russian place. The
title of his celebration in Armenian is “Elk”. When translated, it means
“Exit”. Exit from the place? From the Collective Safety Treaty
Group (CSTO) with Russia and from the Eurasian Union. When
he was a deputy, he at all times spoke out towards Russia, took an
anti-Russian place. Due to this fact, I’m shocked when some
political circles in Russia nonetheless take his aspect. In any case, he made
a revolution towards pro-Russian forces, imprisoned pro-Russian
presidents, in addition to the chairman of the primary opposition
pro-Russian celebration. He did the whole lot towards Russia, began
prison circumstances towards Russian firm “Gazprom” and the railway
firm of this nation. He arrested the chairman of the CSTO, a
NATO-like group, who was of Armenian origin. So it is a
one who is dominated by Soros. Additionally, have a look at his group – they’re all
representatives of the Soros Basis, Open Society Institute,
Amnesty Worldwide. So Soros got here to energy in Armenia, however he
suffered a fiasco.
– Mr. President, did you ask Türkiye to station a navy base
within the nation? On this regard, you made a press release during which you
stated {that a} Turkish navy base might be situated on the territory
of Azerbaijan. Have you ever had any negotiations on this matter?
– No, no negotiations on this concern have been held. This has
by no means have been mentioned and such a query doesn’t come up at present
both. Our cooperation with Türkiye within the navy sphere is
getting stronger every single day. I’ve already spoken about this, and I
need to say once more that 10 navy workout routines have been held final 12 months.
Workout routines involving air protection forces, particular objective troops and
others. Due to this fact, cooperation on this space is on the highest
degree, and the deployment of a base in Azerbaijan has by no means been a
topic of debate.
– Mr. President, you stated that Azerbaijan had modified the standing
quo on the frontline. What was the established order and what is going to the brand new
established order be like for Azerbaijan?
– The established order is gone. I’ve already spoken about this, and
it is a actuality. What was the established order? It meant the
preservation of lands beneath occupation. And this was regardless of the
incontrovertible fact that 10 years in the past the Minsk Group co-chairs made a really
constructive assertion on this matter. It stated that the established order was
unacceptable. However no tangible steps have been taken afterwards. We’ve
been ready for a change in the established order for 30 years to realize
this via negotiations. However that didn’t occur. Due to this fact, we
destroyed it on the battlefield. It’s gone. Town of Jabrayil
is with us, a lot of the villages of Jabrayil district are with us.
The overwhelming majority of villages in Fuzuli district are additionally with us.
Now we already see town of Fuzuli. Hadrut is with us,
Sugovushan is with us.
– Are you able to see the middle of Fuzuli now?
– We will see it, after all.
– So can we hear excellent news from there within the close to future,
Inshallah?
– Inshallah. So what sort of established order can we speak about. There
isn’t any established order or a line of contact. We broke via it as effectively.
So over today we did what we couldn’t do inside the framework
of the negotiations.
– Mr. President, I need to ask you yet one more query. The battle is
nonetheless happening. I wish to ask you concerning the occasions that
saddened and delighted you probably the most. By the way in which, the symbolic photograph
is of 4-year-old Bakhtiyar from Ganja who’s smiling regardless of the
damage. This photograph has change into a logo for the entire world. We’ve
interviewed him. And you realize what he stated, this four-year-old
little one? He stated, “Karabakh is ours, Karabakh is Azerbaijan!”
– Sure.
– Mr. President, what impressed you probably the most, saddened and made
you content?
– Our losses sadden me most of all. Each civilians and troopers.
Our younger troopers, having demonstrated selflessness and valor,
change into martyrs within the title of their native lands. This can be a nice
tragedy – for our individuals, for his or her kin, a terrific tragedy for
their mother and father. Due to this fact, the loss of life of each Azerbaijani – whether or not
civilian or soldier, it doesn’t matter – is the best struggling
for me. They’re all our compatriots, our sons, brothers.
And what pleases me most of all is the unbreakable will of the
Azerbaijani individuals as a result of individuals dwelling beneath fireplace don’t transfer.
Armenia needs to show Tartar into Stalingrad, into the second
Aghdam, Fuzuli. Why are you shelling this civilian metropolis? Take that
funeral ceremony. Greater than 200 shells have been dropped this morning in
the course of two hours. Why? What’s there in Tartar? Folks reside
there. So that is Armenian fascism. Additionally they need to intimidate
us. As well as, they suppose that we live within the Nineteen Nineties when
they attacked us, our military couldn’t resist them and our residents
left these areas, turned refugees and internally displaced
individuals. They’ve these concepts. However they need to know that the
present-day Azerbaijan shouldn’t be what it was earlier than. Right this moment’s
Azerbaijan is a powerful state able to defending itself. Our
residents reside beneath shelling however don’t depart these locations. Their
homes are on fireplace, all property is misplaced, however they are saying “Lengthy reside
the Motherland!” This makes me pleased probably the most. And in addition to see our
flag on the lands liberated from occupation. That is what makes me
pleased.
– Mr. President, 83 million individuals in Türkiye pray for
Azerbaijan every single day. Do you are feeling these prayers? What would you
prefer to say in reference to this to the Turkish individuals? What
message do you’ve got?
– After all, I do. These prayers and the prayers of the
Azerbaijani individuals, our mates and brothers dwelling in different
nations are saving us as a result of our trigger is a explanation for justice. We
are combating for our lands. Armenia’s battle is a battle of evil forces.
We’ve at all times seen and felt Türkiye ‘s help. In recent times,
the leaders of Türkiye and Azerbaijan have tied our nations to
one another with such sturdy ties that this unity and this
brotherhood is unshakable. I obtain many letters from Türkiye
today. Folks write, “Mr. President, I’m additionally prepared to return,
I’m prepared to assist”. That is very touching and makes us pleased. Our
unity manifests itself as soon as once more throughout this troublesome time.
Due to this fact, I categorical my deep gratitude to all our Turkish brothers.
We really feel and see their help, it provides us extra power and
reinforces our dedication. My pricey brother, pricey President Recep
Tayyip Erdogan stated, “Azerbaijan shouldn’t be alone, Türkiye is subsequent to
Azerbaijan”. This, in reality, is probably the most stunning expression, the
greatest saying that displays our unity.
– Mr. President, in conclusion I wish to ask how you’ll
describe Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
– Recep Tayyip Erdogan is my brother. We’ve a really shut
relationship. Each as presidents and as two individuals. I’ve deep
respect for him. He’s a world chief. He has raised Türkiye to
excessive peaks. He has elevated Türkiye. Because of him, the entire world
is aware of Türkiye as a worthy and proud state. Each some nations and,
sadly, some political forces in Türkiye itself are displaying
nice injustice in direction of him. I can’t intrude in these issues,
after all, however as an individual, I can’t stay detached to this
as a result of he has performed rather a lot for Türkiye. There isn’t any-one else in
Türkiye at present who would find it irresistible a lot, shield its pursuits, be
able to do something for it. Everybody ought to know this. Everybody in
Azerbaijan is aware of this. Many individuals in Türkiye additionally know this however I
need to inform those that don’t. Political strife takes place
in every single place however there may be additionally a nationwide query. There ought to be
no political battle within the nationwide query. Within the face of
hazard, we should unite. Türkiye is being attacked from all sides
at present. To endure this, to face up to these assaults takes large
braveness. It requires nice professionalism, information and
dedication. That is the form of individual my brother is. I can say
this totally sincerely as a result of I do know him effectively. I wish to
want him continued success. His phrases, his actions, his life are
essential for your complete Turkic world, and we’ll proceed to
make nice effort to unite and deepen cooperation of the Turkic
world.
– And final query, Mr. President. You stated about the necessity to
be along with Türkiye. On this context, have you ever acquired
messages of help from the Turkish opposition?
– Sure. Such messages have arrived. You understand, I’m the form of
one who says the whole lot as it’s. There isn’t any want for diplomacy
on this matter. The primary factor for me in Türkiye is the angle
in direction of my brother. Somebody who treats him effectively has a spot in my
coronary heart. Those that deal with him unfairly, oppose him, there isn’t a place
for them in my coronary heart. After all, I categorical my gratitude to everybody
who needs to offer help. Nevertheless, I imagine – and everybody
ought to know this – that if Erdogan wasn’t there at present, Türkiye
might be confronted with a giant catastrophe. Let everybody know and
perceive this. I say this as an atypical citizen of Azerbaijan.
You possibly can hear it at present from 10 million residents of Azerbaijan. The
Turkish-Azerbaijani unity is strengthening. Due to this fact, individuals who
guarantee this unity ought to obtain the mandatory help in every single place,
in nationwide points. As for questions between events, it is a
completely different matter. There’s a nationwide concern during which everybody
ought to be a patriot.
– Mr. President, thanks very a lot for taking the time to
reply our questions.
