FINANCIAL AID TO KARABAKH TO DAMAGE AZERBAIJANI-U.S. RELATIONS – BAKU

Interfax
Jan 11 2010
Russia

The U.S. Congress’ decision to provide financial support to the
unrecognized Karabakh republic will have a negative effect on
Azerbaijani-U.S. relations, Azeri Deputy Foreign Minister Khafiz
Pashayev said on Monday.

"Obviously, that would have a negative effect on our relations. We
always strongly condemn congressional decisions of the sort," he said.

Baku tries to prevent similar actions every year, Pashayev said.

"We try to explain that such steps are at least harmful for the
bilateral relations and the national interests of the United States,"
he noted.

Congress has approved the allocation of $8 million to Karabakh.

Baku lost control of Karabakh and seven adjoining regions in an
armed conflict with Yerevan in the 1990s. One million Azeris became
refugees and displaced persons. The UN Security Council condemned
the occupation of Azerbaijani lands and demanded the Armenian pullout.

The world is mediating the settlement process. The OSCE Minsk Group
co-chaired by the United States, Russia and France is the mediator.