Executive Secretary of the Commonwealth of Independent States has praised Azerbaijan's democratic achievements in an interview with AzerTAc.
Sergey Lebedev said: "It is today globally recognized that over the last few years Azerbaijan has made considerable progress in developing its economy and democracy. And it is not just my opinion, it is an obvious fact."
He in particular praised processes he witnessed during presidential elections in the country.
"As a man who observed the presidential elections I can praise the competent work of electoral bodies in Azerbaijan at all levels. I also witnessed how much importance the local authorities attached to ensuring that the Azerbaijani citizens can freely express their will."
Lebedev touched upon the preparatory work for the forthcoming parliamentary elections in Azerbaijan.
"I know that a lot of parties and public movements will participate in the elections. As far as I know, according to information from the Executive Committee and Azerbaijani officials, the work is underway now to ensure that the elections take place in an organized way and, first and foremost, that the Azerbaijani citizens can freely express their will."
"I'm confident today's level of development of democracy in Azerbaijan will allow the country to chose its worthy parliament," said Lebedev, who is expected to visit Azerbaijan on October 4 to monitor the parliamentary elections.
The CIS will send a delegation of monitors to the country in mid-October, who will establish the Commonwealth's observers headquarters here.

AzerTAc