Fariz Ismayilzade, Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Science and Education of the Milli Majlis (National Assembly) and head of the working group on inter-parliamentary relations with the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, has issued a formal protest to his British counterparts. The letter was addressed to members of the UK Parliament, including Baroness Helena Kennedy, Brendan O'Hara, and Jessica Morden.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the appeal expresses serious concern and disappointment regarding an initiative launched in the UK Parliament to investigate the former criminal and separatist regime that once existed in the internationally recognized territories of Azerbaijan.
Separatism inquiry viewed as blow to peace process
The letter specifically emphasized that such an initiative could deal a serious blow to the ongoing peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Notably, this peace process has consistently received high-level support from the British government. The appeal reminded the British legislators that the difficult period of illegal occupation of Azerbaijani lands by Armenia, which lasted for more than 30 years and resulted in the displacement of nearly 1 million Azerbaijanis, is now over.
Currently, the parties are making real progress in peace negotiations with the support of the United States, under the administration of US President Donald Trump, and European partners. The appeal states that the planned hearings regarding the defunct separatist regime are likely based on misinformation from radical, anti-peace diaspora groups and lobby circles, characterizing the move as provocative.
No room for revanchism in the South Caucasus
Fariz Ismayilzade declared that there is no room for revanchism in the South Caucasus. He stressed that the parties must work together to strengthen peace and prevent a return to the policy of war. The Milli Majlis (National Assembly) official concluded by calling on the UK Parliament to cancel the investigation initiative. Azerbaijani lawmakers expressed hope that their British colleagues would support this position, ensuring that the strategic partnership between the two nations continues to contribute to regional stability.
Inter-parliamentary diplomacy plays a crucial role in the bilateral relations between Baku and London. The United Kingdom is one of the largest foreign investors in Azerbaijan, particularly in the energy sector, and both nations have maintained a strategic dialogue focused on regional security and economic cooperation since Azerbaijan restored its independence.
