DEPORTED PIANIST BURAK BEDIKYAN THANKED TURKISH MFA FOR IMMEDIATE REACTION

Azeri Press Agency, Azerbaijan
Dec 27 2006

Turkish citizen of Armenian origin, pianist Burak Bedikyan, deported
from Azerbaijani airport Bine on Dec 19, made allegation against
Azerbaijan in his release to the press, APA’s bureau reports.

The pianist said that he visited Azerbaijan as a Turkish and the
visit was professional.

"I was insulted at the airport in Baku. They asked my surname. I
answered that I am a Turkish citizen of Armenian origin. I also noted
that I have always represented Turkey in other countries. Though
I was calm, the Azerbaijanis answered my questions concerning the
issue very rough and in ill-mannered way. I felt dizzy but they did
not give me a cup of water, not even let me to the restroom. I could
not get in touch with the embassy and friends. Three hours later I
was sent back. I will defend my right till the end. I thank Turkish
Ministry of Foreign Affairs for immediate reaction", he said.

He also noted that Sertab Erener failed though she tried hard to
have him admitted to Azerbaijan. So, the singer performed without
the assistance of the pianist at the concert on occasion of 10th
anniversary of Azercell. Turkish MFA sent a note to Azerbaijan
concerning the issue twice. Turkish ministry appealed to Azerbaijani
MFA and Azerbaijani embassy and demanded the explanation on the
issue. Azerbaijani ambassador to Turkey Zakir Hashimov rejected the
information about the note. The counselor Jeyhun Mammedov told that
Burak Bedikyan did not appealed to the embassy to get a visa.

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress