Defense Minister supports stationing NATO units in S. Caucasus

"Stationing of NATO military bases in South Caucasus can become one of the core factors for strengthening peace in the region and allay the ardor of the countries trying the destabilize the situation here. Besides, this could facilitate solution to the Armenian-Azerbaijan conflict", Defense Minister Safar Abiyev told the visiting deputy commander-in-chief of the US European Command Lieutenant-General Carlton Fulford.

Gen. Fulford described the idea of stationing NATO troops in the Caucasus as attractive, saying it was well worth thinking about. He also welcomed the rapprochement in military relations between Azerbaijan and Turkey. “Turkey is one of NATO strong components. We respect them very much. Any contacts with them will stand your country in good stead”, he said.*