Azerbaijan Complains About 'International Double Standards' Applied to Baku

Azerbaijan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed dissatisfaction with the responses from several international organizations and countries regarding the closure of the Lachin corridor. Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister Khalaf Khalafov specifically stated, "As you know, environmental activists and representatives of non-governmental organizations are conducting a protest against the illegal exploitation of mineral resources in areas temporarily stationed by Russian peacekeepers. Unfortunately, just as in the 1990s, today we are witnessing how double standards are applied to Azerbaijan," said the Azerbaijani deputy minister.

He essentially confirmed that the protest was organized by the Azerbaijani authorities, not hiding the fact that the aim of the action is not environmental, but to establish control over the Lachin corridor.

The deputy minister declared, "The action is taking place on Azerbaijani soil. The Azerbaijani people will demand restitution of rights and will achieve their goals, regardless of the double standards applied against us. Azerbaijan, as a guarantor of its territorial security, has every right to ensure complete control over the Lachin corridor, in accordance with our sovereign rights. The ongoing action is a socio-political movement, reflecting that the Azerbaijani people are the owners of their land and natural resources, as a result of the victory in the 44-day war of 2020," the official said.