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US Defense Sec, Azeri minister discuss situation in Afghanistan, Iran

Hagel spoke in favor carrying on the strategic partnership with Azerbaijan
Photo EPA/ITAR-TASS
Photo EPA/ITAR-TASS

WASHINGTON, August 6 (Itar-Tass) - Situation in Afghanistan, struggle with terrorism and the prospects for settling the Iranian nuclear problem came into focus at Monday’s talks between the U.S. Secretary of Defense, Chuck Hagel, and the Azerbaijani Defense Minister Safar Sabiyev, the Pentagon said in a press release.

Hagel thanked his Azerbaijani opposite number for support of U.S.-led military efforts in Afghanistan and for Azerbaijan’s continued participation in the International Security Assistance Force /ISAF/.

He also told Abiyev the U.S. is thankful for permission to use the Azerbaijani territory for the transportation of cargoes to and from Afghanistan.

Both ministers agreed to continue joint work on the issues including the operational compatibility of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces and NATO armies, struggle with terrorism, changes in the sphere of defense, and maintenance of security on the sea, the Pentagon said.

Hagel spoke in favor carrying on the strategic partnership with Azerbaijan.

The ministers discussed the situation in the region. Hagel mentioned, among other things, the recent inauguration of Iran’s new President, Hassan Rowhani, and said Teheran should take rapid actions so as to clear away the world community’s profound concern over Iran’s nuclear program.