'Azerbaijan is a supporter of peace. We are ready to start negotiations on a peace agreement with Armenia based on the fundamental principles of international law, such as territorial integrity, sovereignty and the inviolability of internationally recognised borders. Emphasising the importance of Armenia's demonstration of a constructive position on this issue, we hope that France will support the peace agenda in the region.' Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev stated this on Monday in his congratulatory message to French President Emmanuel Macron on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The text of the document is posted on the website of the head of the Azerbaijani state.
At present, the main task facing Azerbaijan is the restoration of territories completely destroyed as a result of many years of occupation, the head of the Azerbaijani state noted.
Ilham Aliyev highly appreciated the support of France in the demining of the liberated territories and attention to the fate of the Azerbaijanis who went missing during the First Karabakh War. 'We highly appreciate France's support for the demining process in our liberated territories. At the same time, we welcome your country's attention to clarifying the fate of about 4,000 of our compatriots who went missing during the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict,' the President of Azerbaijan wrote.
Ilham Aliyev noted that Azerbaijan, where peoples of different civilisations, cultures and religions historically lived together and in harmony, is a state pursuing an independent policy based on the will and interests of the people.
The head of state stressed that by putting an end to the occupation of its historical and ancient lands by Armenia, Azerbaijan ensured its territorial integrity by fulfilling the resolutions of the UN Security Council. 'The end of thirty years of aggression has created opportunities for cooperation in the region in accordance with the new geopolitical reality. In this regard, the opening of transport and communication lines promises great economic prospects for our region,' the head of the Azerbaijani state believes.
He believes that the quadripartite meeting and negotiations initiated by France as current EU presidency provided an opportunity to build confidence in the region and ensure lasting peace and stability.