Baku, October 23, 2024 – The Europe Today: The government of Azerbaijan has firmly rejected the statement made by European Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, Nicolas Schmit, during a debate at the European Parliament on October 22. The statement, which Azerbaijan deems as “unacceptable, unfounded, and totally biased,” was reportedly prepared by the European External Action Service (EEAS).
Azerbaijan’s response criticized the claims made by Schmit, including accusations that Azerbaijani citizens face prosecution for their political beliefs or viewpoints, and that criminal proceedings against individuals identifying as journalists or human rights advocates are politically motivated. The government called these assertions “fundamentally wrong” and detached from reality, accusing the EEAS and the European Parliament of attempting to interfere in Azerbaijan’s internal affairs.
Azerbaijan also highlighted longstanding grievances with the EU’s approach, pointing to the European Union’s perceived indifference to Armenia’s aggression during the nearly 30-year conflict with Azerbaijan. The statement also referenced systemic human rights challenges within some EU member states, rising Islamophobia, and neo-colonial policies, particularly in the context of protests such as the “yellow vests” and unrest in overseas territories like New Caledonia.
Additionally, Azerbaijan criticized attempts to politicize the upcoming 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) by linking it to issues irrelevant to climate change, accusing certain European politicians of using the forum for ulterior motives.
In conclusion, Azerbaijan urged the European Parliament and the EU to abandon what it describes as a unilateral stance that undermines peace and stability in the region.
