BAKU – The Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a strong response to recent comments made by German parliamentarian Frank Schwabe, which were critical of Azerbaijan’s political leadership.

According to Trend News Agency, spokesperson Aykhan Hajizada described Schwabe’s remarks as biased and unfounded. Hajizada pointed out Schwabe’s involvement in corruption cases and murky business links, suggesting these factors contribute to his deceptive and hypocritical stance against Azerbaijan. “His criticisms fail to recognize Azerbaijan’s achievements in political stability, economic development, and progress,” Hajizada stated. The spokesperson also addressed Azerbaijan’s position on its territorial integrity and independent policies, which he claimed are at odds with Schwabe’s intentions.

Hajizada further criticized Schwabe’s concerns about Azerbaijan’s relationships and its presidency of the upcoming 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, suggesting these were politically motivated and not in line with the goals of combating climate change. Additionally, he noted that individuals who opposed the Azerbaijani delegation at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) have been designated as ‘personae non gratae’, affecting their ability to enter Azerbaijan.

The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of Azerbaijan’s commitment to its international obligations, warning against the application of double standards and biased approaches toward the country.