Military solution not ruled out

"If the peace talks on liberation of the occupied land yield no fruit, Azerbaijan will resort to a military way of solution", said President Aliyev in a nationwide address on the occasion of the Novruz Bayrami on March 21.

In his speech marking the festivities, the President said Azerbaijan, however, does not support a military resolution of the deadlock.

"But if the annexed lands are not freed, we will show what we are capable of and return our lands through the will of the Azeri nation and its army", he said.

The statement comes shortly before the President’s upcoming meeting with Armenian counterpart Kocharian in Key West, Florida, on April 3 being initiated by US Secretary of State Colin Powell.

The meeting of the Azeri and Armenian presidents in Paris, brokered by French President Chicac, reportedly failed to result in a breakthrough in Garabagh peace talks. This cased a sharp public outcry in Azerbaijan and triggered an outbreak of military moods in the society.

Much to the satisfaction of the people of Azerbaijan, the head of state, while in Turkey on an official visit, urged Ankara to provide assistance in breaking the deadlocked negotiations.

Touching upon the Paris negotiations, the President said he would never sign a document that could hurt national interests of Azerbaijan.

The President indicated that problems of the Garabagh veterans were always in government's focus and pledged to further keep an eye on that.

The Novruz festivities saw theatrical performances by folk groups, renowned signers and pop bands.

Celebrations were also held in many parks and squares of the capital.

+Time will show

Following the President’s statement, Azeri Defense Minister Safar Abiyev told journalists that Azerbaijan needs to conclude new military cooperation treaties with Turkey. However, the minister declined to elaborate the gist of such covenants.

Asked if Azerbaijan could count on Turkish assistance if the war with Armenia is resumed, Min. Abiyev said "time will show".

According to him, Turkey has repeatedly stated its readiness to provide any assistance necessary.

The deputy commander-in-chief of the US European Command Lieutenant-General Carlton Fullford visited Baku last week and welcomed the rapprochement in military relations between Azerbaijan and Turkey.

"Turkey is one of NATO’s strong components. We respect it very much. Any contacts with this country will stand Azerbaijan in good stead", he said.

The Azeri Minister said stationing of NATO baes in Suth Caucasus is a good prospect to relish.

"Stationing of NATO military bases in South Caucasus can become one of the determining factors of strengthening peace in the region and allay the ardor of the countries trying the destabilize the situation here. Besides, it could facilitate solution to the Armenian-Azerbaijan conflict", he said.

Gen. Fullford, in turn, described the idea as attractive, saying it was well worth thinking of.