A seminar focused on a strategic role of Azerbaijan in the region was held at Beth Am Synagogue in Los Angeles. The discussion was opened by Dr. Reuven Firestone, Professor of Jewish and Islamic Medieval Studies at the University of Southern California, who briefed the guests on the history of Azerbaijan and traditions of tolerance.
Consul General of Azerbaijan to Los Angeles Elin Suleymanov addressing the meeting emphasized the contribution of the Jewish community to the development of Azerbaijan, warm ties between the Azerbaijani and Jewish people, and also positive dynamics in the Azerbaijan-Israeli relations.
The diplomat also dwelled on tragic events of January, 1990 (Black January). He said that the cruel action committed by the Soviet authorities against the Azerbaijan people has strengthened the aspiration of the people of Azerbaijan to independence and construction of the sovereign state. Azerbaijanis, Jews, Russians and other nations were among victims of the Black January. Citizens of multinational Azerbaijan, including representatives of the Jewish community, have risen then to protect the country against the Armenian aggression.
Elin Suleymanov has underlined that strengthening of independent statehood and rapid development of the country are key priorities of the strategy of President Ilham Aliyev.
"Gaining of independence in 1991 has given a unique historical option of sovereign development to the countries of the former USSR. Unfortunately, unlike other ex-Soviet countries, the policy of official Yerevan is based on expansionism and narrow-ethnic ideas", Suleymanov said.
The Azerbaijani diplomat also said the United States should quit the double standards in relations with partners in region. This question is especially important in relations with the Muslim countries. Mr. Suleymanov expressed gratitude to Dr. Reuven Firestone for his contribution to intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding between Moslems and Jews. Suleymanov has emphasized that today Islamic and other religious traditions continue to develop dynamically in the country.

AzerTAc