The European Union representative slammed Azerbaijan for the arrest of journalist Khadija Ismayilova.

“The arrest of investigative journalist Ms Khadija Ismayilova by the Azerbaijan authorities last Friday, and her commitment to pre-trial detention on a charge of 'incitement to suicide', is a step against the freedom of expression, key to any democratic society,” EU External Action spokesperson said in a statement.

“Azerbaijan needs to stand fully by its international commitments, as a member of the OSCE and the Council of Europe, to ensure the freedom of the press. The EU will closely follow developments in Ms Ismayilova's case”.

Loudest critic of Azerbaijani government Khadija Ismailova was arrested on Friday evening. She is charged with inciting a person to commit suicide. If convicted, Ismailova may face up to seven years in prison.

The arrest of a journalist was condemned by a number of international organizations, including Council of Europe and OSCE.