|
 International
Policy - The Right Way Heydar Aliyev (May 10, 1923-December
12, 2003) who served as President of Azerbaijan (1993-2003) in an interview with Azerbaijan International's
editor, Betty Blair, in 1999 when asked what advice he would
give to future leaders of Azerbaijan in the 21st century in regard
to foreign policy, given that Azerbaijan was a small country
surrounded by Russia, Iran, Armenia, Turkey and Georgia? |
"You can't be friends with some
countries and enemies with others, despite the fact that this
is the way most countries function. You have to take into consideration
the special interests of each country. Azerbaijan doesn't want
to be enemies with any country. At the same time, we will not
become victim to another country's policies. We have our own
independent policy. As well, we are developing good relations
with Europe and America and seek to benefit from their experiences,
while preserving our own national identity and our own resources.
Future leaders must pursue the policy that I have put in place.
If they do, then they will succeed. If not, then Azerbaijan will
face enormous tragedy."