Azerbaijani president describes Turkey as “closest ally”

Anatolia news agency, Ankara
7 Feb 05

Baku, 7 February: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has stated that Turkey
and Azerbaijan are the closest allies of each other. “Turkey has always stood
by Azerbaijan,” said Aliyev.

Aliyev hosted Turkish Parliament Speaker Bulent Arinc and his delegation at
the Presidential Palace.

In a speech delivered at the palace, Aliyev stressed that relations in all
areas are developing rapidly between Turkey and Azerbaijan. “It is pleasing to
see the developments between our two countries in the areas of economy and
politics. The Turkish investments in Azerbaijan are very prominent for the future
of Azerbaijan,” told Aliyev.

According to Aliyev, Turkey stands by Azerbaijan in the issue of Upper
Karabakh. “We always feel Turkey’s support to Azerbaijan,” expressed Aliyev.

Aliyev thanked Arinc for Turkey’s support that led to the adoption of a
decision by the European Council that describes Armenia’s actions in Karabakh as
“an occupation of Azeri territory”. Aliyev indicated that the understanding of
“one nation, two governments” will always exist between Turkey and Azerbaijan.

Arinc expressed a desire to see the end of Armenian occupation of Karabakh.
“We want the Armenian occupation to end soon and no longer wish to see tyranny
in Karabakh,” said Arinc.

Aliyev will host a dinner tonight in honour of Arinc and his delegation.