President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev hinted at his readiness to break relations with the Council of Europe.

According to Aliyev, the activity of the Council of Europe Secretary General caused an artificial crisis between this organization and Azerbaijan, stressed Ilham Aliyev.  

“That is not us who initiated this crisis. We simply take adequate steps towards a hypocritical and unfair policy against us. We have never been unresponsive to any attack against us. That’s why I believe that our adequate response was given in a timely manner,” the president said at a solemn ceremony held on Tuesday to mark the 25th anniversary of the founding of the ruling New Azerbaijan Party, APA reported.

President Aliyev said that Azerbaijan will continue to actively participate in international organizations.  

“The Non-Aligned Movement, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation is a key priority for us. We have been an active member of the Council of Europe for more than 15 years, and a number of events were held through this organization,” he added.

The president noted that a well-known international organization such as the Council of Europe should not become a victim of unsuccessful ambitions of an individual.

“I hope that the issue related to this body will also be resolved. This is what we wish and hope for. If this crisis deepens, then, of course, Azerbaijan will have the right to make its choice freely. We have joined all organizations on our own will and can also voluntarily leave. No one can force us to remain in any organization,” added Ilham Aliyev.