By Russian President
BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 1. Azerbaijani MFA
reacts to the remarks made by Mikhail Shvydkoy, Special
Representative of the President of the Russian Federation for
International Cultural Cooperation, regarding the cancellation of
Russian cultural events in Azerbaijan, Trend reports.
”The remarks made by Mikhail Shvydkoy, Special Representative
of the President of the Russian Federation for International
Cultural Cooperation, during his interview with Interfax Agency
regarding the decision to cancel cultural events planned to be held
in Azerbaijan through state and private Russian entities, his
attempt to distort and take out of context the decision made by
Azerbaijan are unacceptable, said Aykhan Hajizada, spokesperson for
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan.
‘The demonstrative and deliberate acts of extrajudicial killing
and violence committed by Russian law enforcement agencies in the
city of Yekaterinburg against Azerbaijanis on the basis of their
ethnic identity have rightfully provoked strong protest and
condemnation from Azerbaijan.
Against the backdrop of these incidents, which have dealt a blow
to bilateral relations with Russia, the decision to cancel cultural
events is a fully lawful and adequate step.
As for the claims that the cancellation of Russian cultural
events has 鈥渋mpoverished Azerbaijan鈥檚 cultural environment and
landscape,鈥 it is surprising to hear such biased remarks from Mr.
Shvydkoy, who, during his numerous visits to Azerbaijan, has
repeatedly expressed his admiration for our country鈥檚 rich culture.
We do not think that concert programs by Russian singers such as
Basta have impoverished Azerbaijan鈥檚 cultural landscape, as Mr.
Shvydkoy puts it.
Azerbaijani culture, which has developed over millennia, serves
as an example for many nations and peoples. Azerbaijan rightfully
takes pride in its unique historical and cultural monuments, as
well as its rich literature, art, and music,” the statement of the
Azerbaijani MFA reads.