Doc. 11417
4 October 2007

The need to carry out research by Azerbaijani scientists in Azikh cave (situated in the Azerbaijani district of Fuzuli occupied by Armenia), the most ancient human settlement in Europe

Written question No 536 to the Committee of Ministers
presented by Mr R. HUSEYNOV

      Azikh cave, which is situated in Fuzuli, one of seven Azerbaijani districts outside the borders of Nagorno-Karabakh occupied by Armenia, is one of the rarest examples of the world cultural heritage belonging to the Palaeolithic period. Due to the systematic research carried out by Azerbaijani archeologists in 1960-70, it was found that this cave, consisting of 12 layers, is 550-600 thousand years old. At that time, Azerbaijani scientists wrote a lot of monographs, articles and dissertation research relating to Azikh cave and information about the monument was disseminated in different encyclopedias of the world. It was scientifically acknowledged that the head of the women of 19-20 found in the cave was the remnants of the oldest human in Europe.

      This unique monument was used as an arsenal for Armenian armed forces for a long while after occupation of the district of Fuzuli and it served as a target in the training base. Due to the inhuman acts perpetrated by Armenian vandals, the monument suffered serious damage and a special document was prepared in PACE in this regard.

      Azerbaijani scientists have collected necessary materials for including Azikh cave in the UNESCO list of world cultural and natural heritage. Actually, the archeologists should conduct regular research in order to learn the history of humanity, including European history. However, the policy of aggression led by Armenia prevents this. Therefore, it is primarily necessary to put an end to aggression and withdraw from the occupied territories. Nevertheless, in the current situation, it is important at least to prevent more serious future damage and to broaden the scope of research.

      Taking into consideration all of the above, Rafael Huseynov asks the Committee of Ministers,

      How can the Committee of Ministers, within its powers, influence Armenia in order to create proper conditions for carrying out research in Azikh cave, which is of vital importance to European history, by Azerbaijani scientists specialised in this field and for ensuring their security?

Signed:

HUSEYNOV Rafael, Azerbaijan, ALDE