Adil Karimli: Fake news in int'l media aim to damage Azerbaijan's reputation

No one can say that Azerbaijan is indifferent to any cultural artefact or historical monument, the country's Culture Minister Adil Karimli said at the meeting of culture ministers held in Baku as part of COP29, Report informs.

The minister underlined that Azerbaijan has always been sensitive to its own cultural heritage, as well as historical cultural artefacts around the world.

Karimli declared that all historical and cultural heritage sites on the territory of Azerbaijan are protected, regardless of their origin. "There is a lot of fake news in the international media focused on creating negative opinion about Azerbaijan," he said. "Azerbaijan has repeatedly invited international organizations to inspect and survey the state of historical monuments in the country, especially in the territories liberated from occupation. It is impossible for a country that makes such an offer to harm any cultural artefact."

The minister also commented on the damage to Azerbaijan's cultural heritage over the years. "During the 30 years of occupation, Azerbaijani cultural heritage suffered serious damage. Many of them were destroyed and ruined. However, those monuments are now being restored. Azerbaijan is also working to defend its violated rights. Countries that claim Azerbaijan has damaged any historical or cultural artefact should look at the consequences of their own destruction and barbaric policies," Karimli added.