The 10th meeting of the sub-committee on Justice, Freedom, and Security, Human Rights, and Democracy under the Azerbaijan-European Union (EU) Cooperation Committee took place.

During the meeting, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Affairs of Refugees and IDPs, Fuad Huseynov, made a speech in the second part of the session, focusing on the critical issues of migration, forced displacement, and asylum.

In his speech, the Deputy Chairman provided comprehensive insights into the historical factors contributing to the refugee and forced displacement issues in our country, results of Armenia's deportation and occupation policy and outlined the steps taken to address these challenges and highlighted the humanitarian endeavours of international organizations.

It was emphasized that the former IDPs consistently receive unwavering support and care from the government of Azerbaijan under the guidance of President Ilham Aliyev. It was also mentioned that First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva demonstrates particular sensitivity towards resolving social issues of IDPs.

It was highlighted that due to the decisive "Iron Fist" counter-offensive military operation led by our brave army, under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief, Ilham Aliyev, our nation successfully restored its territorial integrity and ensured the right of IDPs to return to their ancestral lands. Presently, extensive efforts are underway by the government to reconstruct and rebuild the areas liberated from occupation, including the restoration of infrastructure and communication networks.

IDPs expressed their delight at the liberation of their homelands from occupation and their eagerness to return, mentioning that this process is hindered by the menace of mines planted by Armenia during the period of occupation. It was underscored that Armenia's failure to provide comprehensive and accurate mine maps is a violation of fundamental human rights, particularly the right to life.

Worth noting that the Azerbaijani side at the sub-committee meeting comprised representatives from the Presidential Administration, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other relevant state institutions, including representatives from the Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights. The EU was represented by delegates from the European External Action Service, various departments within the European Commission, and officials from the EU representation in Azerbaijan.