The United States welcomes yesterday’s decision by the Baku Court of Appeals to release human rights activist Leyla Yunus from prison on humanitarian grounds. Together with the November release of her husband Arif, we view it as a positive step, and we look forward to more such steps.
We will continue to seek opportunities to advance all areas of our relationship, including security, energy, and democracy and human rights, in partnership with the Azerbaijani government and people. We call on the government of Azerbaijan to adhere to its OSCE commitments to protect and promote the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all its citizens.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
As delivered by Ambassador Daniel B. Baer to the Permanent Council, Vienna
