US urges Azerbaijan to respect freedom of speech
TERT.AM
12:38 – 14.02.13
Washington has called upon the Azerbaijani government to demonstrate
respect for freedom of speech and take proper action to ensure the
security of Akram Aylisli, the writer jailed recently over a book
scandal.
At a daily press briefing on Wednesday, Spokesperson for the
Department of StateVictoria Nuland said they are closely following the
developments related to the persecutions against the writer.
The controversial novel, Stone Bridge (2012), is dedicated to the
former Armenian residents of Soviet Azerbaijan. A central figure there
is an Azerbaijani from Agulis , who tried to assist the Armenians
during the pogroms in Baku and Sumgait (late 1980s and early 1990s).
`We have been watching this very closely. It’s our understanding today
that the Modern Musavat party has now rescinded the offer and law
enforcement authorities have called in this individual for
questioning, which is the right way for this to go. Obviously, we
strongly support and believe in respect for freedom of expression. We
urge the Azerbaijani Government to uphold its commitments to protect
the safety and security of Mr. Aylisli and all of its citizens,’
Nuland said in her comments.
The campaigns against the writer were launched in Azerbaijan in
January this year. The protest shave been often accompanied by threats
and persecutions.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress
Disclaimer: This article was contributed and translated into English by Emil Lazarian. While we strive for quality, the views and accuracy of the content remain the responsibility of the contributor. Please verify all facts independently before reposting or citing.
Direct link to this article: https://www.armenianclub.com/2013/02/16/us-urges-azerbaijan-to-respect-freedom-of-speech/
