Domestic

Domestic

Head of Presidentâ€™s Office: I do not know where the report on pardon of imprisoned journalists comes from

27 June 2007 16:40 (UTC +04:00)

Mr.Mehdiyev commenting on NGOsâ€™ appeal to Council of Europe (CE) regarding journalistsâ€™ imprisonment stressed that it was done at the initiative of unconstructive forces.
â€œIf the journalists have valid comments, they can appeal to corresponding state bodies. And those bodies will take measures in the framework of their competences and laws. According to my observations, unconstructive forces initiate it. There is no patriotism, Azerbaijani love, considered intent in the steps the journalists take,â€ he said.
Mr.Mehdiyev underlining the necessity of formation of democratic press in Azerbaijan said that they have not yet achieved this.
â€œIt not only depends on the authorities, media outlets close to the authorities behave in the framework of legislation and modern demands,â€ he said.
Head of Presidentâ€™s Office stressed that some newspapers and publications of radical opposition publish unconstructive materials.
Mr.Mehdiyev stated that state officials will probably participate in the forum to be held on media condition on June 29, 2007.
â€œA group of journalists has gathered and exchanged views at the initiative of ruling New Azerbaijan Party (YAP). I regard that the talks were constructive,â€ he said. /APA/