Siena:The Working Group on Azerbaijan-Turkiye interparliamentary relations of the Milli Majlis has issued a statement expressing serious concern over recent biased information campaigns against Azerbaijan. These campaigns are taking place in certain media outlets and social media platforms in Turkiye and involve unfounded accusations from members of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and Oktay Saral, chief adviser to the President of Turkiye.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the Working Group emphasized the strong relationship between Azerbaijan and Turkiye, characterized by friendship, brotherhood, and strategic alliance. Azerbaijan defines its domestic and foreign policy independently, in line with its national interests and Constitution, adhering to the principle of “One nation, two states” as formulated by National Leader Heydar Aliyev. The group deemed any distortion of this principle or interference in Azerbaijan’s internal affairs unacceptable.
Azerbaijan’s secular state structure and freedom of belief are constitutionally guaranteed, and its education policy is based on secularism, equality, and equal opportunities for all. Any politicization of these issues or unfounded accusations against Azerbaijan’s constitutional structure and education policy are considered inadmissible by the Working Group.
The statement also condemns insulting expressions against President Ilham Aliyev and other Azerbaijani figures, and criticizes the AK Party government for not taking steps to prevent such actions. Provocations outside Azerbaijan’s diplomatic missions in Turkiye and calls for such actions have raised serious concerns.
The Working Group calls for adherence to principles of political responsibility, mutual respect, and non-interference in internal affairs to maintain the special nature of Azerbaijan-Turkiye relations. They urge Turkish political circles, particularly those in the ruling party, to handle these sensitive issues responsibly and respect Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and constitutional framework, avoiding statements that could harm bilateral relations.