23/05/2014 Standing Committee
“During the period of its Chairmanship, Azerbaijan will put in efforts in order to successfully continue the work carried out to reinforce the fundamental principles of the Council of Europe, that is pluralist democracy, the rule of law and human rights,” said Ogtay Asadov, Speaker of the Milli Majlis , addressing PACE’s Standing Committee today in Baku.
“The 65-year history of the Council of Europe proves that there is no alternative to democracy and a democratic ruling system. We bear a responsibility, both individually as separate countries and collectively as the Council of Europe, to preserve and develop European values that have passed through the tests of centuries,” he added.
“The priorities of Azerbaijan’s Chairmanship at the Council of Europe have already been declared. These are the fight against corruption, social issues, multiculturalism which characterises Azerbaijan, and education, particularly human rights education. I think that the significance and relevance of these tasks is obvious for everyone,” Mr Asadov underlined.