No:096/20, Commentary by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Khalaf Khalafov
-What can you say about the agreement on the construction of “Khudaferin” and “Giz Galasi” (“Maiden Tower”) hydro junctions and hydroelectric power plants on the River Aras?The Agreement on cooperation in the field of continuation of construction, operation, use of energy and water resources of "Khudaferin" and "Giz Galasi" hydro junctions and hydroelectric power plants on the River Aras were signed on February 23, 2016 and the parties to this Agreement are the Governments of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran. This Agreement is based on the principles of respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both states. Based on these principles, the Agreement emphasizes the importance of restoring the territorial integrity of the Republic of Azerbaijan in accordance with the requirements of UN Resolutions. Also, according to the Agreement, the parties work together to continue the construction and operation of "Khudaferin" and "Giz Galasi" hydro junctions and hydroelectric power plants on the border River Aras on the basis of the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and interests of both countries.
-What can you say about the issues raised in the media in connection with the implementation of the Agreement?
The issue of construction of the bridges, covered in the press, according to the Agreement should be considered in the framework of the implementation of the projects on "Khudaferin" and "Giz Galasi" hydro junctions and hydroelectric power plants. According to the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the part of the dams and bridges entering the territory of Azerbaijan is accepted by the Iranian side within the territorial integrity of the Republic of Azerbaijan. This is reflected in the above-mentioned Agreement, which is approved by the Parliaments of both countries and has a legal force.
Based on the high level of mutual trust, friendship and good neighborliness between Iran and Azerbaijan, we believe that these bridges serve the implementation of projects related to the “Khudaferin” and “Giz Galasi” hydro junctions and hydroelectric power plants.