The Azerbaijani Parliament's decision to suspend cooperation with the European Parliament is a principled and firm response to years of biased approaches and double standards. This move goes beyond freezing institutional ties—it underscores Azerbaijan's clear and resolute defense of its national interests in the international arena.
MP Mehriban Valiyeva stated to Oxu.Az that Azerbaijan has always treated international organizations and partner states with respect and expects the same respect and fair treatment in return. President Ilham Aliyev's principle—'every international organization and foreign country must treat Azerbaijan with respect because we treat them with respect'—remains the cornerstone of state policy. The Parliament's decision confirms this approach at the legislative level.
For a long time, the European Parliament has drifted from a balanced and objective stance toward Azerbaijan. Notably, during Armenia's occupation, the failure to respond adequately to gross violations of international law and the trampled rights of over one million refugees and internally displaced persons raised serious questions. Even after the 44-day Patriotic War, biased attitudes persisted.
The surge of criticism ahead of COP29—a globally significant event—was seen by Baku as a coordinated political pressure attempt, contradicting the spirit of cooperation and dialogue. Trust has been severely eroded. When parliamentary cooperation platforms turn into tools of political pressure, it becomes unacceptable. Consequently, the Azerbaijani Parliament decided to halt participation in these platforms.
The resolution entails suspending all cooperation with the European Parliament, freezing participation in the EU-Azerbaijan Parliamentary Cooperation Committee, and halting proceedings in the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly. This marks a significant shift in parliamentary diplomacy.
The MP emphasized that Azerbaijan is not closing the door entirely. Normalization and restoration of relations are possible only if the other side returns to objectivity, international law, and mutual respect. The responsibility lies not solely with Azerbaijan but also depends on the political will and behavior of the counterpart. This decision confirms a new reality: Azerbaijan now asserts its position more firmly, more principled, and fully aligned with national interests.
Recall that the European Parliament adopted a resolution against Azerbaijan on April 30, 2026. In response, the Azerbaijani Parliament announced the suspension of cooperation on May 1, 2026. Additionally, EU Ambassador Mariyana Kuyunciç was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and handed a protest note.
