A Quarter Century Since Restoring Independence, A Thriving U.S. Ally

A Special Report Prepared By Advocacy Department From tragedy to independence How turned a 1990 massacre into freedom

elements, namely a strong, unquestion- able commitment to its independence and the inclusive nature of its tolerant society, remain at the core of Azerbai- jan’s strategic importance. Despite a his- tory of imperial domination, the people of Azerbaijan persevered, sacrificed and ultimately won the freedom and independent future they sought. In fact, Azerbaijan was the first nation of the So- viet empire or Eastern Europe to become free of any foreign military presence on its soil. Independence has given Azerbaijan Courtesy of The Fletcher School/John Davis Photography the ability to act in the best interest of our own people without outside By Elin Suleymanov interference. Azerbaijan’s strengths today include energy security, a grow- itself, and for its international partners. On that day a quarter-century ago, wenty-five years ago this ing economy, modern infrastructure A people who have struggled and an independent nation was reborn. In month, while President and a remarkable degree of stability. suffered in their quest for freedom and today’s world, where differences seem George H.W. Bush was deliv- Independence has allowed us to pursue independence guard both. These people to matter more than common humanity, ering his State of the Union and achieve our peoples’ centuries-long demonstrated their commitment to these Azerbaijan’s vision of inclusive intercul- message before a joint ses- dream of a prosperous and successful aspirations 25 years ago. The Soviet tural dialogue enriched by the experi- sion of Congress, Soviet nation. This is no small accomplishment troops who shot and killed so many ence of creating in 1918 the first-ever troops attacked unarmed ci- anywhere, but especially in the com- citizens of Azerbaijan indiscriminately democratic republic with a predomi- vilian protesters in the Azerbaijani capi- plicated geopolitical neighborhood in that day gunned down a diverse group of nantly Muslim population sets a valuable Ttal of , killing some 133 people and which we are located. freedom lovers, including , global example. wounding hundreds of others. The Soviet Azerbaijan is a reliable international Russians, Tatars, Jews and others. People This tradition continues under TME N T effort to crush the growing Azerbaijani partner. History has shown that unstable of all ethnicities and faiths were killed by Azerbaijani President . The AR pro-independence movement culminated nations with compromised sovereignty the troops of a collapsing Soviet empire nation’s commitment to inclusiveness in the largest massacre in a generation, pose the greatest threat to peace and se- that night, and people of all faiths and and openness is widely recognized in the Y D EP

C but it failed miserably, hastened the end curity while stable, prosperous societies ethnicities of Azerbaijan came to mourn world, be it among the Muslim nations, A of the Soviet Union and led directly to committed to the fundamentals of inter- the victims. Led by Azerbaijan’s Chris- by the Vatican or by Israel, an important VOC our formal declaration of independence national law promote peace and estab- tian, Jewish and Muslim denominations, partner of Azerbaijan. two years later. lish the basis for continued democratic 1 million people marched in Baku on a Azerbaijan’s passionate devotion to The events of 1990 helped crystallize reforms. A stable, prosperous Azerbaijan cold January day in 1990 in a spectacular meaningful independence and rejection key elements of the Azerbaijani social is good for its people, for the strategi- act of defiance against a Soviet army- of radicalism is sometimes misunder- and political identity. Two of those cally important region in which it finds imposed curfew. stood. It is easy enough for those who don’t live in our neighborhood to fault us for not acting precisely as they might

N TIME S AD ASH I N GTO like, but it is dangerous and foolish to simply ignore the map of the world or to minimize the value of stable and inde- Y T H E W pendent allies in our region. There are even some in the West, including the U.S.

AR E D B Commission on Religious Freedom, who continue to view religious radicalism as some sort of theoretical problem rather T P R EP than a truly dangerous global threat with which those who live in our region must contend. While we appreciate construc-

N TIME S ASH I N GTO tive criticism and advice, the driving force behind our policies and strong A L R EPO A S PECI T H E W partnership with the United States will

| remain the choices, desires and interests of our people. For a quarter-century, every Jan. 20 citizens of Azerbaijan of all persuasions bring red carnations to the memorial of the tragedy. It is, however, a truly independent, successful and diverse Azerbaijan that is the best tribute to the sacrifices of those who died on the streets of Baku at the hands of a collaps- ing Soviet regime. Thursday • January 29 • 2015 • January Thursday Elin Suleymanov is Azerbaijan’s am- 2 bassador to the United States. Why Azerbaijan matters to the United States

as an energy producer, a staunch oppo- Russian energy supplies. Too often equipment and supplies. The country nent of Russia and Iran, and a reliable Russia has used its dominate position provides a secure transit route for 40 international ally. in the energy markets as a weapon to percent of the NATO International A sensible energy policy is multi- bully its neighbors. It has raised gas Security Forces operating in Afghani- pronged, and Azerbaijan is part of prices indiscriminately in Eastern Eu- stan. United States and Azeri military that equation, especially in relation to ropean nations and has even blocked continue to work side-by-side in the discussion on neutralizing Rus- shipments in the dead of winter. training Afghani police, border guards, sia. Early on, Azerbaijan opened its Not only has Azerbaijan played an and civilian and military doctors. Ad- rich oil and gas resources to foreign important role in the global energy ditionally, cooperation between the investment from companies from market, but they have also been a stra- two countries extends into efforts to Europe and the United States. The tegic partner in matters of global secu- counter international terror, nuclear Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline rity. As we have seen in recent months, proliferation and narcotics trafficking. originating in Azerbaijan, currently terrorist regimes have reared their ugly Now, more than ever, we must exports roughly 1 million barrels of oil head, looking to destabilize the region strengthen our current relationships per day. The proposed Trans-Caspian or even launch attacks against Ameri- with allies new and old. Azerbaijan has Gas pipeline, however, is currently in a can interests. Azerbaijan is strategi- continually shown their willingness holding pattern because of opposition cally located in the epicenter of where to cooperate with our government to from Iran and Russia. Both pipelines most of the hostile and politically-un- foster a healthier, more stable Middle will ultimately be the region’s great stable countries are located, and where East and Eurasia. It is imperative for equalizer. This energy supply will help acts of terrorism are common. And the future of our national security that By Rep. Randy Weber Europe finally relinquish its reliance on yet, this majority Shiite Muslim nation we continue down a path of collabora- Russian oil and gas. counts Israel among one of its clos- tion and show that we will be a strong Why would a relatively stable coun- Pipeline infrastructure is critically est allies. Azerbaijan provides up to and strategic partner to Azerbaijan for try at the intersection of the Middle important for the energy security of 40 percent of Israel’s oil imports, and years to come. East, Europe and Asia, with a strong the United States and Europe, and is in return, acquires advanced military economy and burgeoning energy sup- the most efficient method of trans- equipment, anti-aircraft and missile Rep. Randy Weber is a Republican who ply, matter to the United States? It’s a porting fossil fuels. The United States defense systems, as well as drones represents the 14th District of Texas in the great question with a relatively easy should play a positive role in efforts from Israel. U.S. House of Representayives and serves answer. In 1991, Azerbaijan gained its to support the construction of this Bordering both Russia and Iran on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. A SPECIAL REPORT PREPARED BY THE WASHINGTON TIMES ADVOCACY DEPARTMENT independence from the Soviet Union project so that Azerbaijan will be able and a critical gateway to Afghanistan, and has since proven to be a strong to get more of its product to European Azerbaijan has also been a strategic strategic partner to the United States consumers in search of relief from transit location for U.S. military troops, Azerbaijan: A Strategic American Ally That Must Receive Our Full Support

Russia to the North, Iran to the South been very clear in its opposition to just because it’s in our interests to do and the Caspian Sea to the East. Azer- the Russian meddling in Ukraine. In so, but because they have also sup- baijan is of particular importance since fact, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Moldova ported us in some of our darkest days. it holds the rights to significant re- were the only post-Soviet States to vote After the terrorist attacks on Septem- serves of oil and gas in the region. All against Russian aggression in the UN ber 11, 2001, Azerbaijan committed its

of which makes this small country very Security Council last year. Azerbaijan military personnel and put them on THE WASHINGTON TIMES strategically important to the West. has a history of standing with the U.S. the ground in Afghanistan to support As a Member of Congress who sits and its allies for the good of the world Operation Enduring Freedom. How on a number of committees and orga- community. could we possibly turn our backs on nizations dealing directly or indirectly However if Azerbaijan were to find them after committing their national with international issues, I have had itself at the end of the barrel of Russian treasure to support us in our fight the opportunity to visit Azerbaijan on aggression, I believe President Obama’s against radical Islam? a couple of occasions. On those trips I handing of the situation in Ukraine A more stable and prosperous have met with President Ilham Aliyev, gives us all great concern over what Azerbaijan promises a more stable and | as well as opposition leaders. The the Administration’s response would prosperous Caucus region. This is why Thursday • January 29 • 2015 country’s commitment to the West, be. I fear that from past experiences, it is so important the Obama Admin- coupled with its location between the response would amount to strong istration uphold our American values, Asia and Eastern Europe, makes it of words and not much action. Presi- ideals and morals and not undercut extreme importance to the interest of dent Obama has laid down several red and undermine our strategic relation- freedom and the hopes for democracy lines in the past as a response to world ship with the government and people in the region. It also puts the nation in conflicts, and many times we have seen of Azerbaijan. By Rep. Robert Aderholt a position to feel threatened from its the U.S. retreat when those lines were In the middle of Eurasia sits the neighbors. With Russia’s backing of ultimately crossed. President Putin Rep. Robert Aderholt is a Republican Caucasus Mountains, flowing down rebels in Ukraine and President Putin’s has made it clear by his actions, that if who represents Alabama’s 4th District to the Caspian Sea. And on the West annexation of Crimea, we have reasons he wants something, he will do what is in the U.S. House of Representatives. Shore of the Caspian sits a small to be concerned about Azerbaijan’s necessary to attain it. and very important country named future as well. We must support and be willing to Azerbaijan. This country sits between The government of Azerbaijan has backup the people of Azerbaijan, not 3 Azerbaijan’s rich history Azerbaijan with Jewish settlers opened Congressional Caucus door to Israel alliance By The Washington Times More than five dozen members of the U.S. House of Rep- resentatives are members of the Congressional Azerbaijan Rare Muslim country to befriend Tel Aviv Caucus, which was formed a decade ago to expand bilateral relations and improve congressional understanding about this By The Washington Times That bond of trust has grown over the centuries, key U.S. ally in the Caspian Sea region. and today has translated into a larger diplomatic Since its founding in 2004 by then-Reps. Curt Weldon, alliance between Azerbaijan and Israel that began Pennsylvania Republican, and Solomon Ortiz, Texas Democrat, f one wonders how the majority Muslim a quarter of a century ago. Israel opened the door the caucus has arranged several congressional delegations to country of Azerbaijan came to such a rich in late 1991, with one of the first declarations in the visit Azerbaijan. alliance with Israel today, one need look no world recognizing Azerbaijan as an independent The caucus has educated members on Caspian energy further than the Red Village, a tiny river country after the fall of the Soviet Union. and the geopolitics of Eurasia, and helped advocate expanded conclave in the mountainous region of Quba. Diplomatic and economic ties grew rapidly over strategic relations between the United States and the Republic There, for centuries, a Jewish community the years, as both countries shared a deep concern of Azerbaijan on such critical issues as trade, security and has thrived amid a Muslim population. about Iran’s efforts to export Islamist extremism and military cooperation. Today about 5,000 Jews have settled in the vil- develop nuclear weapons. Israeli Prime Minister The current members of the caucus at the end of the Ilage, which boasts three schools and three syna- Benjamin Netanyahu made the first official state 113th Congress: gogues. And the language of Hebrew, the artifacts of visit to Baku in 1997 in a sign of how warm relations the Jewish faith and the rich tapestry of Azerbaijani between the two countries were becoming. woven carpets all blend together in a lasting tribute Commerce and trade flourished, with Israel Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) Ralph Hall (R-TX) to the cultural tolerance this country has achieved. becoming a major importer of Azerbaijan oil and Al Green (D-TX) Randy Hultgren (R-IL) Arye Gut, an Israeli scholar of Azerbaijani de- Israel’s technology industry aiding Baku with such Alcee Hastings (D-FL) Randy Weber (R-TX) scent, wrote a recent essay describing the unique projects as telecommunications infrastructure. atmosphere of multiculturalism that has blossomed Increased security ties have followed in the years Allyson Schwartz Robert Wittman (R-VA) in the former Soviet republic. since. Shortly after the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks in (D-PA) Rodney Alexander Bill Shuster (R-PA) (R-LA) (Co-chair of the Caucus)

TME N T Ruben Hinojosa (D-TX)

AR Bill Cassidy (R-LA) Sheila Jackson Lee Collin Peterson (D-MN) (D-TX) Y D EP C

A Corrine Brown (D-FL) Shelly Moore Capito (R-WV)

VOC Darrell Issa (R-CA) Ed Whitfield (R-KY) Steve Cohen (D-TN) (Co-chair of the Caucus) Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) Tim Ryan (D-OH) Eni Faleomavaega Todd Young (R-IN) (D-AS) Tom Cole (R-OK)

N TIME S AD ASH I N GTO Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ) Virginia Foxx (R-NC) Gene Green (D-TX) Mark Meadows (R-NC)

Y T H E W Gerald Connolly (D-VA) Jim Bridenstine (R-OK) “Respect and tolerance for national minorities America, Israel and Azerbaijan declared they shared Glenn Thompson (R-PA) Filemon Vela (D-TX)

AR E D B has played a vital role in the development of the a common interest in fighting global terrorism, and Howard Coble (R-NC) Luke Messer (R-IN) country from antiquity to the days of the Silk Road they forged an intelligence and security alliance that to modernity. Minorities, as well as women, have has flourished over the last decade. Jim Moran (D-VA) Leonard Lance (R-NJ) T P R EP been ubiquitous in Azerbaijani government since That alliance led to the thwarting of a major Joe Barton (R-TX) Gregory Meeks (D-NY) its independence from the Soviet Union,” he noted terror attack planned in 2008 by extremists on the Joe Wilson (R-SC) Marc Veasey (D-TX) in his essay in newspaper. Israeli embassy in Baku and the arrests of 22 people

N TIME S ASH I N GTO “Azerbaijan has made a concerted effort to cre- accused of plotting attacks in 2012 against Israeli and John Boozman (R-AR) Mike Turner (R-OH) ate and foster the necessary political and social U.S. interests in Azerbaijan. John J. Duncan, Jr. John Yarmuth (D-KY) A L R EPO A S PECI T H E W conditions for developing and strengthening the In 2009 Israeli President Shimon Peres also vis-

(R-TN) | country’s traditions of multiculturalism and toler- ited Baku, launching a new era of cooperation. And Henry Cuellar (D-TX) ance,” he added. “Time and again, Azerbaijan has in 2013 Mr. Peres welcomed a high-ranking Azeri Joseph Pitts (R-PA) Robert Aderholt (R-AL) demonstrated that harmony is possible, and issues delegation to his country to talk about the shared Luis Guitierrez (D-IL) Ted Poe (R-TX) can be resolved without resorting to violence or concerns a nuclearized Iran posed for the world. Madeleine Bordallo Michelle Grisham st r ife.” The Israeli president’s comments that day offered (D-Guam) Legend has it that Jewish settlers first reached a succinct explanation of how two seemingly odd (D-NM) the Quba region back in the 13th century. But the bedfellows became such strong global allies. Mike Conaway (R-TX) Pete Gallego (D-TX) cementing of two cultures really took root in 1742, “I know the policy of Azerbaijan is of peace, Nick Rahall (D-WV) Pete Olson (R-TX) when the leader of Quba, Huseynali Khan, and his friendship, development but also of independence. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY) son, Feteli, gave their blessing to Jewish settlers to With your unique geographic location, there is no Charlie Dent (R-PA) form a permanent community. The Khans offered doubt that you already are, and will continue to be, Pete Sessions (R-TX) Matt Salmon (R-AZ)

Thursday • January 29 • 2015 • January Thursday their protection to the village, vowing that any at- a key country in this part of the world. Azerbaijan Peter King (R-NY) Doug Collins (R-GA) tack seen from across the river would summon an takes a clear stand against terror, against war,” the 4 army of protection. Israeli leader explained. RED VILLAGE: JEWISH HERITAGE OF AZERBAIJAN

Red Village ( ) sits across a river In 1938-1939, Red Village was populated by 12,000- from Guba, larger town of Azerbaijan famous 13,000 Jews. A er the collapse of the Soviet Union, the throughout the Caucasus for its woven rugs. population immigrated mostly to Israel and the United Red Village is inhabited almost exclusively by States, but did not abandon the settlement completely. In Mountain Jews, between 2,000 and 5,000 of them, the summer nearly all the émigrés return to spend some according to various estimates. Red Village, with time in their hometown. three schools and three synagogues, is the most densely populated area of mountain Jews in the Mountain Jews in Azerbaijan are divided into 3 local world for their number. Inside Red Village’s main groups: Guba people, settled mainly in Red Village of synagogue, the only sign of di erence is when Guba region of Azerbaijan, Oghuz people, settled in visitors are asked to remove their shoes, as in a Oguz, Ganja, Ismayilli, Goychay and Shamakhi cities of mosque, and the  oor of the shul’s rich wooden Azerbaijan, and Shirvan people, settled in the north-east interior is covered in Azerbaijani carpets. of Azerbaijan, the former Meji village of Shamakhi and A SPECIAL REPORT PREPARED BY THE WASHINGTON TIMES ADVOCACY DEPARTMENT Baku, capital of Azerbaijan. While the Highland Jews had been in the area around Quba since at least the 13th century, the Unlike the more European, Ashkenazi Jews of the former formal creation of Red Village is traced back to Soviet Union, who largely stopped practicing religion, the 18th century, when in 1742 the khan of Quba, Mountain Jews clung as tenaciously to their faith as their Huseynali Khan and later his son Feteli Khan, gave villages have clung to the rocky Caucasus terrain. Over the the Jews permission to set up a community free of years, they borrowed customs from their amiable Muslim persecution across the river from the city of Quba. neighbors, but never assimilated. Even as their knowledge According to locals, Feteli Khan, decreed that if of the rituals seeped away, they adhered to the broad anyone came to attack the town, the Jews should outlines of Judaism, faithfully attending Sabbath prayers, light  res and he would see them from across the scrubbing their homes on Fridays and baking their own river and send help to defend the inhabitants. matzo on Passover. THE WASHINGTON TIMES | Thursday • January 29 • 2015

Wonders of Azerbaijan 11601 Wilshire Blvd. STE 500, Los Angeles, CA 90025, USA TOLL FREE: +1 800.464.5217 • [email protected] • www.WondersofAzerbaijan.com 5 Rep. Turner champions Azerbaijan, Southern Gas Corridor as key to geopolitical stability

record that it is in the U.S. national since winning its independence from interest to support the Southern Gas the Soviet Union in 1991, Azerbaijan Corridor, a pipeline project that would has unequivocally joined the war help send natural gas from Azerbaijan against terrorism, become one of to key allies across Europe to lessen the few Muslim countries to openly their energy dependence on Russia support Israel and given America a and other countries. reliable inteleligence and military ally The Shah Deniz field in Azerbaijan sandwiched between Iran and Russia, is one of the world’s largest gas fields, he has said. with over 30 trillion cubic feet of re- “The ongoing unrest in Ukraine is a Southeastern Europe, coverable gas. stark reminder that the United States bordering the Caspian Sea, between Iran and Russia, In a statement on the House floor, must enhance our strategic partner- Location: with a small European Mr. Turner explained why the pipe- ships as a buffer against Russia’s inten- portion north of the line project was more than an eco- tions,” he noted in one speech praise . Caucasus range nomic opportunity for the Caspian In a floor speech last May com- Sea region. memorating th 96th anniversary of y he ashington imes Map References: Eastern Europe B T W T “The Southern Gas Corridor will the country’s founding, Mr. Turner contribute to regional energy security praised Azerbaijan for its willingness for our allies in Europe and Eurasia, to engage America and to spread its Area: Total: 86,600 sq km Rep. Michael R. Turner, R-Ohio, and help to strengthen our strategic energy wealth across Europe to create has been one of the most cogent voices partnership. Many of our allies are stability in turbulent times. Comparative Area: Slightly smaller than Maine on Capitol Hill in educating his col- reliant upon natural gas supplies from “Azerbaijan continues to be an leagues about the importance of Azer- a single nation or unstable regions. important partner with the United baijan as a strategic U.S. ally. And as Ensuring our allies have access to States in counter-terrorism efforts and Land Boundaries: Total: 2,013 km chairman of the U.S. Delegation to the an alternative and reliable source of initiatives to bolster energy security North Atlantic Treaty Organization energy will help improve geopolitical with strategic allies. With its vast TME N T Armenia (with Azerbaijan- Parliamentary Assembly, his voice is stability in the region,” he said. resources of oil and gas, Azerbaijan is AR proper) 566 km, Armenia closely heeded. Mr. Turner, a member of the Azer- a key component to help our strategic (with Azerbaijan-Naxcivan Mr. Turner in 2013 paved the way baijan Congressional Caucus, also has allies in NATO and other European Y D EP exclave) 221 km, Georgia 322 C for a bipartisan resolution putting frequently highlighted Azerbaijan’s countries diversify their energy re- A Border Countries: km, Iran (with Azerbaijan- proper) 432 km, Iran (with the U.S. House of Representatives on direct assistance to the United States sources,” he noted. VOC Azerbaijan-Naxcivan exclave) 179 km, Russia 284 km, Turkey 9 km

0 km (landlocked); note America’s new ambassador Coastline: - Azerbaijan borders the Caspian Sea (713 km)

N TIME S AD ASH I N GTO to Azerbaijan: Robert F. Cekuta Maritime Claims: None (landlocked)

By The Washington Times senior adviser in the department for Y T H E W Large, flat Kur-Araz Ovaligi food security issues. (Kura-Araks Lowland, much Over his two-decade career, Mr. of it below sea level) with AR E D B Great Caucasus Mountains Shortly before leaving for holiday Cekuta has served in numerous over- to the north, Qarabag recess, the U.S. Senate approved the seas posts including Kabul, Afghani- Terrain: Yaylasi (Karabakh Upland) nomination of Robert F. Cekuta, a stan; Tokyo, Japan; Berlin, Germany; T P R EP in west; Baku lies on career foreign service diplomat with Tirana, Albania; Vienna, Austria; Abseron Yasaqligi (Apsheron expertise in international energy is- Baghdad, Iraq; and Johannesburg, Peninsula) that juts into sues, to be the new American ambas- South Africa. Caspian Sea.

N TIME S ASH I N GTO sador to the Republic of Azerbaijan. Mr. Cekuta earned his bachelor’s Lowest point: Caspian Sea Mr. Cekuta arrives in his new post degree at in Elevation Extremes: A L R EPO A S PECI T H E W -28 m after serving the last three years as the 1976 and master’s degrees from Thun-

| State Department’s principal deputy derbird School of Global Management Highest Point: Bazarduzu Dagi 4,485 m assistant secretary in charge of the in 1978 and the National Defense Bureau of Energy Resources, and is University in 1994. Petroleum, natural gas, regarded as an expert in energy is- He is the recipient of numerous Natural Resources: iron ore, nonferrous metals, sues as well as democratic and free awards, including eight Senior Perfor- bauxite market reforms. mance Awards, four Superior Honor He was a key player in the forma- Awards and five Meritorious Honor Land Use: Arable land: 21.78% tion of the new Energy Bureau, where From 2010 to 2011 Mr. Cekuta Awards. He speaks German, Albanian he developed programs advancing served as deputy assistant secretary and Arabic, the department said. Irrigated Land: 14,250 sq km (2010) global energy security, fighting cor- for energy, sanctions and commodi- He was nominated by President ruption and building good governance ties in the Bureau of Economic and Obama in July to the ambassadorship

Thursday • January 29 • 2015 • January Thursday and accountability in oil and gas pro- Business Affairs at the Department and confirmed by the Senate in a voice 6 Per Capita: 1,384 cu m/yr (2010) duction, the department said. of State, and previously worked as a vote on Dec. 16. Azerbaijan: America’s reliable partner

By S. Rob Sobhani on Russian gas could have stood up to Moscow had our foreign policy focused few weeks ago in France, on strengthening its ties to the most a bastion of democracy, reliable energy exporter in the region: Islamic radicals deliber- Azerbaijan. ately targeted a kosher The key question members of the new supermarket and killed Congress should ask themselves is not four Jews. In the fre- whether Azerbaijan is a liberal democ- quently criticized Repub- racy but rather whether President Aliyev lic of Azerbaijan, Jews celebrated another practices good governance. In short, SabbathA and prayed at Baku’s newly built has he provided the fundamental rights synagogue. The synagogue, one of the of security, peace, quality education, largest outside Israel, was opened in this economic growth, poverty reduction and Muslim nation of 8 million at a ceremony job creation for his people? And, further- attended by the Chief Rabbi of Israel. more, has Mr. Aliyev kept his promise of And yet, despite this glaring contrast, standing by the West in its fight against some in our media and foreign policy global jihadis and been a reliable energy elite continue to single out Azerbaijan’s partner? The answer on all counts is a leadership for criticism. resounding yes. A better measure of how Washing- American foreign policy must always ton should treat one of America’s most percent. In other words, able-bodied men States immediately after the attacks of include our cherished values of free- reliable allies in the broader Middle and women who want to enter the job Sept. 11 and sent troops to Afghanistan dom and human rights. And yet those East is to ask whether Azeri President market in Azerbaijan have little difficulty, and Iraq to fight alongside America same values must also be balanced by Ilham Aliyev is delivering on his dual because most construction sites, entry- servicemen and -women. In addition, the realities of an increasingly danger- promises of prosperity for his people and level private sector jobs and even energy Mr. Aliyev has proved a reliable energy ous world. At a time when America cooperation with the West. In a nutshell, sector opportunities are offered first to partner to the West by providing an needs reliable friends on the global does the leader of this secular Muslim the citizens of Azerbaijan. uninterrupted flow of oil and gas from stage, we cannot afford to alienate our country sandwiched between America’s According to the World Bank, poverty the Caspian basin. Unlike his neighbors friends who have stood by us shoul- archrivals Iran and Russia practice good rates have fallen dramatically in Azer- to the north and south — Russia and Iran der to shoulder. Azerbaijan is one A SPECIAL REPORT PREPARED BY THE WASHINGTON TIMES ADVOCACY DEPARTMENT baijan. This is a direct result of a pledge — Mr. Aliyev does not use his nation’s such country and deserves America’s Mr. Aliyev made when he first became energy resources as a weapon. In fact, gratitude. president — namely, to eradicate the Russia’s Crimean land grab may never “shame and stain” of poverty. Our elite have happened had Washington given S. Rob Sobhani, Ph.D. is CEO of Caspian and those in the foreign policy establish- its unwavering support to President Group Holdings, an occasional columnist ment that point the finger at Azerbaijan Aliyev for delivery of gas from Azerbai- for The Washington Times and a former should spend more time figuring out how jan to Ukraine. A Ukraine not dependent candidate for U.S. Senate in . we can eliminate the stubborn poverty levels we see in our own country before criticizing President Aliyev. America’s 4 million-word tax code Azerbaijan Airlines expands to is a monument to the corruption of a political system that allows well-con- nected lobbyists for companies to carve New York, Berlin and Tel Aviv out corporate welfare for their clients. In Azerbaijan the tax code is simple: Incomes below $39,000 are taxed at 14 percent and those above this amount pay 25 percent. Does this mean that Azerbai-

jan is immune from corruption? No. And THE WASHINGTON TIMES does this mean that the country needs to do more to combat corruption at home? Yes it does. But until we clean up our own act at home by giving the American governance? The short answer is yes. people a transparent, flat tax system, it As President Obama laments the may be better not to criticize one of our shrinking American middle class, Presi- strongest allies in the fight against global dent Aliyev celebrates 12 consecutive terrorism. | years of double-digit economic growth. Most importantly for future genera- By The Washington Times Thursday • January 29 • 2015 This has meant a growing middle class tions of Azerbaijanis, President Aliyev with the purchasing power to act as an has made it very clear that his country’s engine for dynamic growth. On numer- debt-to-GDP ratio must not exceed 22 There are many signs of Azerbaijan’s growing economic prowress, but none ous occasions President Aliyev has indi- percent. (It currently stands at below more visible than the expanding footprint of its main airlines cated that growing Azerbaijan’s middle 10 percent.) In short, Mr. Aliyev has not Azerbaijan Airlines last September began its first regular flights between Baku class is his top priority. This growing saddled his country’s youth with massive and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, and the flight’s success middle class will allow for the gradual debt. Sadly, we cannot make the same has expanded the route now to three times a week. opening of the political space. claim in America, where our leaders have With the first-ever European Games set to debut in June in Baku, the airlines While America’s leaders have failed continued to spend to the tune of an $18 this month also announced it has started its first ever regular flights to Berlin, the American people in creating good- trillion debt. Germany, an expansion of its reach across Europe. paying jobs because of misguided On his pledge of cooperation with the And in a sign of the growing friendship between Azerbaijan and Israel, the economic policies, labor participation West, Ilham Aliyev has been a man of his airlines announced it has expanded its fights to and from Tel Aviv to twice a week. rates in Azerbaijan hover above 80 word. His country stood by the United 7 Time for consistent U.S. policy toward Azerbaijan in a post-Soviet world

By Alex Vatanka the region,” will have been far more fit- ting given American leadership. Incidentally, such a selective ap- t a time when the proach, best demonstrated by the direction of America’s EU’s refusal to emphasize Azerbaijan’s foreign policy is gener- territorial integrity in its proposed ating abundant global association agreement with Azerbai- bewilderment, poli- jan, is in stark difference with agree- cymakers in Congress ments offered to Georgia, Moldova and and the administration Ukraine — and one reason why Baku is must be mindful not to alienate more still hesitant to move forward with the alliesA and increase doubt and distrust EU association. of America’s promises. It is one thing to pursue a muddled Azerbaijan, a pro-American, secular foreign policy that leaves U.S. allies Muslim and energy-rich nation of puzzled; it is an entirely different some 9 million people on the shores of proposition — and with potential grave the Caspian Sea, is one of those coun- consequences for America’s global tries. Authorities in Baku are increas- leverage — when Washington’s poli- ingly speculating about Washington’s cies foster a sense of American double commitment to its strategic allies standards or its undependability as a and its own stated values. Some of partner. America’s latest policy maneuverings, including an inconsistent and largely Alex Vatanka is a senior fellow at the toothless response to Russia’s actions against Moscow in a U.N. vote that of states — that impacts a number of Middle East Institute and at the James- in Ukraine, have not helped alleviate called the annexation of Crimea an il- post-Soviet states. It is not just Ukraine town Foundation in Washington, D.C. Baku’s fears. legal act, while many of the post-Soviet and Azerbaijan, but also an issue that He is also a senior fellow in Middle East Since its independence upon the fall states abstained, and Armenia, along Georgia and Moldova are wrestling to Studies at the U.S. Air Force Special Op- of the Soviet Union in 1991, the former with only 10 other questionable na- address. Along with Azerbaijan, the erations School (USAFSOS) at Hurlburt TME N T Soviet republic of Azerbaijan has con- tions, voted against the West. resolution failed to mention Georgia Field and teaches as an adjunct professor AR sidered the United States as one of its The Azerbaijanis have since also and Moldova as well. As the head of at DISAM at Wright-Patterson AFB. His principal strategic partners. This con- eagerly watched America’s posture the Azerbaijani delegation, Bakhar article was first published in The Hill. Y D EP

C scious, but at times hazardous, choice toward Moscow in the hope that Wash- Muradova, put it, a “serious resolution, A to turn to Washington was, from the ington will lead a broader push to stop which would concern all conflicts in VOC outset, rooted in a belief in American Russian intimidation of her smaller strength and a hope in Washington’s neighbors and Moscow’s disregard for fairness in mediating among disputing the territorial integrity of other coun- nations. It was a conviction that drove tries. At a minimum, Baku had hoped Azerbaijan singled out at successive Azerbaijani governments to that the United States would adhere accept American arbitration in Baku’s to the same principles when adopt- Davos for sports leadership, conflict with neighboring Armenia ing policies to deal with international N TIME S AD ASH I N GTO over Nagorno-Karabakh, an Azerbai- territorial disputes. American policy- economic growth jani region occupied by Armenian makers in Congress and the executive, forces since the end of a war in 1994. however, seem more preoccupied with By The Washington Times just 23 years after winning its indepen- Y T H E W For 20 years Azerbaijan has pa- scoring symbolic geopolitical points dence from the Soviet Union. tiently stuck to this belief in America against Moscow than applying interna- “This year’s theme in Davos is ‘The

AR E D B as the foolproof arbiter that will tional laws on the question of territo- Azerbaijan was one of the darlings New Global Context,’ a theme which is somehow and someday help engineer rial integrity of states. at the just-completed World Economic also reflective of the sports movement a peaceful resolution to this frozen This was the case with a recent Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where of- in 2015. Sport in Europe is not only T P R EP conflict in the South Caucasus. In- American measure at the Organiza- ficials hailed the former Soviet republic embracing a new context; it is helping creasingly, however, the Azerbaijanis tion for Security and Co-operation for its economic growth and its com- to create a new context — through the question whether the United States in Europe’s Parliamentary Assembly mitment to global sports competition. introduction of the European Games,”

N TIME S ASH I N GTO prioritizes short-term goals over long- in Baku. Last July, Sen. Benjamin L. The country received significant Mr. Hickey told the dinner. term objectives of peacemaking and Cardin, Maryland Democrat, intro- attention for its efforts to host the first- “Baku will stage a fantastic first edi- A L R EPO A S PECI T H E W the upholding of key American values, duced a resolution that condemned ever European Games this June in Baku. tion. Azerbaijan is a nation emerging

| including respect for the territorial Russian annexation of Crimea. Russia President Ilham Aliyev and Minister of at a rapid pace, and with an abundance integrity and sovereignty of nations. predictably voted against the resolu- Youth and Sports Azad Rahimov, who of natural resources combined with Azerbaijan’s anxieties about Con- tion, and pro-U.S. Azerbaijan, which also serves as chief executive of the efficient management, it has become gress and the administration’s stance hosted the event, was not enthusiastic Baku 2015 games, led a delegation to the a remarkably dynamic state in just 23 on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict about the measure either. The territo- annual event in Davos. They also hosted years,” he said. “Being part of the Euro- recently surfaced again following Rus- rial integrity of Ukraine is important, a dinner gala celebrating the upcoming pean Olympic family has helped accel- sia’s annexation of Crimea in March. the Azerbaijanis argued, but a selective sports competition. erate this development. Sport occupies Officials in Baku quickly grasped the approach by the international com- Patrick Hickey, president of the a special place in Azerbaijan’s society.” possible impact of Moscow’s actions munity to territorial disputes will, in European Olympic Committees, and Mr. Rahimov said the Baku 2015 on the fate of other forcefully annexed the long run, only make a mockery of Klaus Schwab, executive chairman of Games weren’t just a single event but territories, including Azerbaijan’s international law. the World Economic Forum, celebrated rather “a part of our nation’s broader

Thursday • January 29 • 2015 • January Thursday Nagorno-Karabakh region. In a bold Mr. Cardin’s resolution was a mere Azerbaijan for its economic growth and strategy” to become more integrated step that could have not failed to irk knee-jerk reaction to a phenomenon its growing presence on the world stage into the European economy. 8 its larger neighbor, Azerbaijan voted — the disregard for territorial integrity Baku 2015: Inaugural European Games launch in Azerbaijan this June Technology, sports stars and Coca-Cola converge at exciting new venue

By The Washington Times Adrian Corcoran, Baku 2015’s director of technology, proclaimed last month. The European Games are the conti- When the first-ever European Games nent’s first major multi-sport event, with launch this June in Baku, technology, ath- participants from all countries regulated letes and entertainers will command the by the European Olympic Committees. stage in a two-week extravaganza certain Baku, a capital city on the Caspian Sea, was to catapult Azerbaijan onto the global awarded the first ever games back in 2012 sports stage. and will host the first competition starting Baku is a city known for its rich Eu- June 12. The European Games will take ropean history and culture, but after a place every four years thereafter, with the massive construction effort it will also next competition slated for 2019 showcase a state-of-the-art sports venue Of the 18 venues that will host A SPECIAL REPORT PREPARED BY THE WASHINGTON TIMES ADVOCACY DEPARTMENT

unlike any in the world. The European Games is the first multi- sport event to rely entirely on cloud-based technology for both infrastructure and software applications, a model that is likely to be adopted by all major sports events in the future. Baku 2015 will also make use of more than 600 kilometres of fibre optic network to connect venues. That new optical fibre network won’t just bring the games to life THE WASHINGTON TIMES on television and computer screens, it will also provide a lasting benefit to the former Soviet republic with a booming oil econ- omy and a populace craving innovation, information and economic opportunity. “The European Games is an opportu- competition ranging from boxing and Molinas, President of Coca-Cola’s Turkey, nity for Azerbaijan to be at the forefront boxing to volleyball and gymnastics, the Caucasus and Central Asia Business Unit. of technological advancements in sport majority are ready. And the main arena is “We are very proud to be supporting the in- | and we are extremely happy with how due to be finished in a few short weeks. augural European Games, which will soon Thursday • January 29 • 2015 our preparations are progressing so far,” Some of the world’s biggest corporate become one of the international calendar’s names will also be front and center. leading multi-sport events.” Coca-Cola -- a decades-long sponsor of Other corporate partners include Azer- the Olympic was -- was the latest to sign on baijan Airlines, oil giants BP and SOCAR an official partner of the European Games and P&G. last month. Its logo and soda products will The host country also has assembled a be visible throughout Baku 2015 for what star-studded lineup of global ambassadors company executives see as the next big and entertainers to showcase Azerbaijan’s global sporting event. many talents, including actor and comedi- “This is an exciting opportunity to sup- ans Bahram Baghirzade and Murad Dada- port a new and innovative event that will shov as well as female singing sensations unite Europe in a celebration of sport and Nigar Jamal and Roya Aykhan. active lifestyle,” expained Galya Frayman 9 Shahdag: The skiing gem of Azerbaijan

By The Washington Times

ens of thousands of skiers each year make the trek up the mountains surround- ing the town of Gusar to the Shahdag Winter ­Sum- mer Tourism Complex. The world-class ski resort is especially popular around World TAzerbaijanis Solidarity Day and the New Year’s holiday. The complex is less than 20 miles north of the town of Gusar, about 8,200 feet above sea level. Temperatures are perfect for skiing, bottoming out around 34 degrees on winter nights and topping out at 68 degrees during the summer days. The facilities offer a seemingly end- less list of sports and leisure activities all year round, from snowshoeing, skiing and snow tubing in the winter to horse trekking and rope swinging in summer. The resort delivers unforgettable excite- ment and entertainment, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty and invigorating mountain air. The ski slopes have grown from 4,700 feet in tracks a few years ago to TME N T more than 6,560 feet now. A gondola AR infrastructure was launched this winter, giving skiers access to six new slopes. Y D EP

C Amenities are no problem, either. A The five­-star Park Chalet and Gaya VOC Residence hotels provide luxury accom- modations. The Park Chalet includes 164 bedrooms, plus bars, restaurants, fitness facilities and a spa. For hungry skiers, five more cafes and restaurants opened across the complex this winter. If you are longing for a breath of

N TIME S AD ASH I N GTO fresh mountain air and plenty of thrill- ing sports activities during your stay in Azerbaijan, Shahdag Winter-Sum- Y T H E W mer Tourism complex is a must-see destination. AR E D B T P R EP N TIME S ASH I N GTO A L R EPO A S PECI T H E W

| Thursday • January 29 • 2015 • January Thursday 10 Tovuz, the land of antiquity and natural beauty

By The Washington Times For history buffs, there are 64 of- richest agrarian centers, perfect for na- ficial historical sites and monuments ture lovers who want to explore rugged sanctioned by the Culture of Ministry, mountain lands or Alpine forests teem- ountainous and pic- including the 13th-century Haji Bagir ing with oak, beech, walnut, hornbeam turesque, Tovuz is mosque in Duzgirigli village and the and iron trees as well as wild fruit one of the Caucuses’ Kirzan temple dating to the 12th cen- shrubs. A rare Eldar Shami pine is pro- most visually diverse tury. Other architectural attractions tected in the Garayazi State Reserve in regions, lined with worth exploring include eight­-corner Jeyranchol. Animals also abound, and wineries, farms, roll- sepulchers in Gazgulu village, a railway it is easy to spot gazelles, roe deers, ing rivers, historical bridge built in 1880, and 19th-century wolves, foxes, hares, francolins and monuments and lush Alpine forests per- tombs in Yukhari. partridges along the fields and forests Top 10 Mfect for hunting. Tovuz also is home to one of the main of Tovuz. Keeping the tradition of its Turkish Reasons settlers, Tovuz also offers numerous hunting opportunities. With govern- to Visit ment permits, visitors can hunt hares and various swimming birds skipping Azerbaijan across the Kura, Akhindja, Tovuz and Zayam rivers. For the curious, there is a sour water 1. Visit the largest saltwater spring in Catakh village. Because of its lake in the world: sour taste, the water is known by the locals as Turshsu. It contains various The Caspian Sea. chemical minerals that are used for medicinal treatments. In Asrik, there 2. Shop at the crossroads of the are 36 water springs. Among the most Silk Road, in Sheki City. A SPECIAL REPORT PREPARED BY THE WASHINGTON TIMES ADVOCACY DEPARTMENT famous are the Findigli, Maral and Sha- lala. Most of the spring-fed water bodies 3. Learn and live the legends of boast nearby restaurants. The vast sub-Alpine meadows are the Land of Fire. the center of Tovuz’s agriculture in- dustry, providing winter and summer 4. Tour some of the world’s most pastures for livestock farmers as well as magnificent monuments. vineyards that gave rise to the region’s booming wine industry. Archaeological 5. Be wowed by the modern finds, including ancient vessels for wine storage, pinpoint the industry’s origins architecture of Baku. to the seventh century. The industry flourished as German settlers brought 6. Explore rare mud volcanoes. new skills and recipes. The area also became famous for producing cognac, 7. Thrill your taste buds with the which supplied the entire Russian mar- ket. Tovuz Baltiya Ltd. is the main pro- unique flavors of Azerbaijani ducer and exporter of wine products. cuisine. The Tovuz region also affords a va-

riety of cuisines, rich in dough meals 8. Experience nine of the world’s THE WASHINGTON TIMES as well as dishes made with abundant 11 climactic zones in one greens and potatoes. Other delicacies include pilaf, barbecue, fried vegetables country. Azerbaijan offers and the hometown favorite dish known it all, from sun-splashed as khingal. Drinks such as buttermilk, dovga, atlama and fresh fruit juices beaches and lush subtropics complement the area’s wide selection to the fruit orchards of of wines and cognac.

fertile farmlands and snowy | It is impossible to imagine Tovuz Thursday • January 29 • 2015 without saz music. Saz is the national mountain tundra. musical instrument of Azerbaijan. It is popular in Tovuz. Weddings, parties, 9. Shop, dine and stroll the local or state-level ceremonies as well history of Baku Boulevard. as many restaurants are enriched by the musical talents of ashigs, the performers 10. Enjoy a rare oil resort in of saz music. The region draws its name from two and ancient Alban settlements. The Source: Azerbaijan’s official tourism Naftalan. of the ancient Turkish tribes that settled Alban temple, dating to the fifth century, portal there: the Tovuz and the Ovuz. Its build- and several other preserved structures ings and monuments preserve some of once served as shelters for dervishes www.azerbaijan.travel the region’s rich culture and history, who led ascetic lifestyles. Source: Azerbaijan’s official tourism portal dating to medieval times. The region is also one of the Caspian’s 11 Flavors that will take you to the heart of the Silk Road Pomegranate

The “Pomegranate” can rightly be called the “king” pomegranate squeezing or fruit eating. The differ- of fruits in Azerbaijan - some varieties of pome- ent products of this fruit, especially when they are that pomegranate juice minimizes complications granates grown in Azerbaijan are unique with the 100 per cent natural pure pomegranate juice and associated with kidney disease; other clinical trials Goycay District as the home of the Pomegranates not from concentrate are of special interest to the using pomegranate juice came to conclusion that it in Azerbaijan. Each year in October Azerbaijan foreign consumer. might prevent prostate cancer or slow its growth; it hosts Pomegranate Festival in Goychay that attracts might help with heart health, blood fl ow circulation

TME N T people from all corners of society. The Festival The primary reason people drink pomegranate juice and artery stiffening issues, etc.

AR features Azerbaijani fruit-cuisine followed by parade is its well publicized health benefi ts and healthy an- with traditional dances tioxidant nutrients. Studies have already discovered US Buyers who fi rst came to Azerbaijan for pome- Y D EP

C and music, as well as that pomegranate juice contains more polyphenols

A granate juice were struck by two things: the quality competitions and (antioxidants) than green tea, blueberry juice, or of the product and the scale of production. Azerbai- VOC contests such as red wine. jani pomegranate juice, they found, was of excellent quality, possessing a natural sweetness greater than According to scientifi c studies conducted many other juice providers. by world-class university researchers and published in peer-reviewed scien- Used to Soviet and post-Soviet era industry stan- tifi c journals about the effects of dards, juice company executives now had to upgrade consuming pomegranate products N TIME S AD ASH I N GTO to ISO and HACCP standards demanded by the in patients with various health West. Some companies have done this and have conditions, recent researches suggest even gone further—two, for example, discovered Y T H E W the advantages of kosher certifi cation, the obtaining of which gained them access to Israeli and the US AR E D B markets as well. T P R EP Try 100% Pure Pomegranate Juice made from pomegranates Azerbaijan is known for. N TIME S ASH I N GTO Not From Concentrate. No Added Sugar. A L R EPO A S PECI T H E W No Preservatives. No Artifi cial Colors.

| Presented by

offi [email protected]

Thursday • January 29 • 2015 • January Thursday www.azpromo.az 12