In a pivotal development leading up to the snap presidential elections in Azerbaijan, the International Eurasia Press Fund (IEPF) conducted its final meeting with the dedicated observer team at its main office.
A segment of the organization's neutral observer team actively participated in this crucial meeting, where IEPF President Umud Mirzayev emphasized the significance of February 7 as a historic day for Azerbaijan. Mirzayev highlighted the global attention on the country during these extraordinary elections and expressed the IEPF's commitment to ensuring transparent and objective proceedings.
The president underlined the unique nature of these elections, being the first held after the complete restoration of Azerbaijan's territorial integrity and sovereignty. Mirzayev elaborated on the profound impact, stating:
"Our people will vote for the first time after many years in Khankendi, Shusha, Lachin, Fuzuli, and other regions liberated from occupation." He emphasized the transformative changes, with people returning to their homes and settling in areas liberated from occupation, reshaping not only Azerbaijan but also influencing global perspectives on the South Caucasus.
As the country prepares for this significant day, Mirzayev disclosed that IEPF's monitoring activities on election day will be centrally coordinated from a single center. The final meeting also delved into crucial topics, including discussions on the election process, observer rights and duties, and general pre-election activities among the population.
In addition to the meeting, a final training session took place at the Tartar Regional Vocational Training Center of the IEPF, involving a portion of the staff set to participate as observers in the presidential elections on February 7. This session included the participation of the organization's independent observer staff, reiterating the importance of adhering to the rules laid out by the Central Election Commission.
With these preparations, the International Eurasia Press Fund is poised to play a vital role in ensuring a fair, transparent, and democratic electoral process on this historic day for Azerbaijan.