Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry objects to EU decision to provide 10 mln euros from EPF to Armenia

BAKU. July 22 (Interfax) - The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry has expressed its protest over the European Union's decision to provide 10 million euros from the European Peace Facility (EPF) to Armenia.

"We strongly object to this decision by the Council of the European Union and expect transparent information about the aid to be provided," Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry spokesperson Aykhan Hajizada told journalists.

Earlier on Monday, the Council of the EU adopted an assistance measure in the amount of 10 million euros under the EPF in support of the Armenian Armed Forces and decided to start negotiations with Armenia on liberalizing visa rules.

"Following the steps taken by France to equip Armenia with Bastion multi-purpose armored vehicles and Caesar self-propelled artillery systems, the European Union's decision to send military aid to Armenia is an erroneous and dangerous step that serves to increase tension in the region," Hajizada said.

He described these steps by the EU as one-way and biased, adding that the military assistance provided to Armenia is a manifestation of a destructive policy in the region and serves to strengthen Armenia's military potential.

Hajizada called on the EU to stop the policy of stuffing the region with weapons and militarizing it.

"Otherwise, the European Union will also share responsibility with Armenia for any possible destabilizing provocations," he said.