Azerbaijan blames Armenia at international conference

"Azerbaijan attaches great importance to maintaining and further strengthening nuclear security. Especially, in the face of the persistent threat of radical extremism and terrorism in the region and due to our geographic location, we attach the utmost importance to the prevention of the use of our territory as a transit route for illicit nuclear trafficking."

Report informs that the statement came from Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov, who spoke at the International Conference on Nuclear Security: Sustaining and Strengthening Efforts.

"In close cooperation with our international partners, we have developed a comprehensive national export control system with a robust legislation basis in line with international standards. However, due to the continued occupation of about twenty percent of our territory by Armenia, we are unable to provide proper control along a substantial part of our borders. This situation offers favorable conditions for illegal activities, including for nuclear smuggling and nuclear terrorism.

"In conclusion, I would like to stress once again that Azerbaijan is committed to continuing cooperation with international organizations and our partners in strengthening nuclear security in the region and around the world and reducing threats emanating from illicit trafficking in nuclear and radioactive materials and counts on support and cooperation of the IAEA in this matter. Reiterating the importance of this Conference in promoting nuclear security worldwide, Azerbaijan supports the Ministerial Declaration of International Conference on Nuclear Security: Sustaining and Strengthening Efforts."