EU Special Representative hopes for soonest release of imprisoned
journalists in Azerbaijan

Azeri Press Agency, Azerbaijan
July 21 2007

[ 21 Jul 2007 18:20 ]

European Union Special Representative for the South Caucuses, Peter
Semneby today hold a press conference on the result of his visit to
Azerbaijan, APA reports.

The EU Representative said during his two-day stay in Baku he had
discussions on the questions related to the implementation of the
action plan, media situation, preparation for the elections, ensure
of the rule of law and also the Nagorno Karabakg conflict resolution.

Mr. Semneby said the EU is concerned about the imprisonment of seven
journalists in Azerbaijan.

"We have raised this issue in all our meetings. The European Union
proposes amending the legislation in order not to consider defamation
case against journalists in accordance with Criminal Code bur Civil
Code. A journalist cannot be in prison for his writing. So, I hope
the imprisoned journalists will be released soon."

The EU Special Representative also touched on his visit to Nagorno
Karabakh planned for September this year adding that this visit will
serve reinforcing confidence between the parties to the conflict.

"The European Union is not rival to the OSCE Minsk Group which is
mediating for a settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. On
the contrary, it supports the Group’s efforts," the EU diplomat
concluded. /APA/