“Azerbaijani fundamental position is simple. The conflict must be settled within Azerbaijan's territorial integrity. Armenian armed forces must withdraw from the occupied territories. Our compatriots must return to native lands,” Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said at an inauguration ceremony of a new apartment building in Hovsan settlement for the Great Patriotic War veterans, the Karabakh War invalids and families of war victims, AzerTaj state news agency reported.
“No other viewpoint is considered beyond this position. Azerbaijan has repeatedly voiced its position on this issue,” the Azerbaijani president said.
He said that the conflict has not been solved yet.
“We strive to solve it through talks.”
“Our country’s opportunities are increasing both in economic and military spheres. At present, Azerbaijani Army is the strongest in the region. If we had had such a powerful army late 1980 and early 1990, Azerbaijani lands would not have been occupied. The people who were in power in Azerbaijan in late 1980s and early 1990s made big mistakes. As a matter of fact, they have allowed occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh. However, as soon as National Leader Heydar Aliyev took office, the situation in Azerbaijan changed. Several territories were returned and ceasefire was achieved,” the president said.
“During cease fire, Azerbaijan was able to achieve great success,” Aliyev said.
The president said at present Azerbaijan's economy can not be compared with that of Armenia.
“We surpass them in all respects. We have very broad political opportunities. Our international positions are strong. Our economic potential is higher several times. Regarding military strength, I would like to stress again that Azerbaijani Army is the strongest in the region. We enhance our military strength. Indeed, it needs huge funds. But we must do it as we live in war conditions. The war has not finished yet. Its first stage has been completed. We must be ready to liberate our native lands from occupiers at any moment,” the Azerbaijani president said.
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