EU OFFICIAL DISCUSS KARABAKH, ENERGY ISSUES IN AZERBAIJAN

Azad Azarbaycan TV
Jan 21 2009
Azerbaijan

[Presenter] The EU thinks that the Nagornyy Karabakh conflict is a
serious obstacle for the implementation of energy projects between the
EU and regional countries. Taking these factors into consideration,
visiting EU Commissioner [for External Relations and European
Neighbourhood Policy] Benita Ferrero-Waldner urged the parties to
the conflict to find a common denominator as soon as possible.

[Benita Ferrero-Waldner, speaking in English with Azeri translation
superimposed, addressing the joint briefing] There are three main
issues on the agenda of our discussions in Azerbaijan. The first one is
a peaceful settlement to the Nagornyy Karabakh conflict. I think that
Azerbaijan and Armenia should resolve the conflict by peaceful means
once and for all. This will affect the development of the region’s
energy sphere. The second issue is [the EU initiative of] Eastern
Partnership. Association agreements are expected to be signed within
this partnership. These agreements will cover the simplification of
visa issues. The third priority is cooperation in the energy sphere.