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Presentation of “Travel document” to persons who obtained refugee status in Azerbaijan and www.migrationto.az website held
On January 23, 2020, “Travel documents” have been presented to persons who obtained refugee status in the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as introduction of newly developed www.migrationto.az website has been held at the State Migration Service (SMS).
Representatives of various state entities, diplomatic representations of foreign countries and international organizations accredited in Azerbaijan, as well as non-governmental organizations (NGOs) attended the event.
In his opening speech Chief of the State Migration Service, III rank state migration service counselor Vusal Huseynov gave information about significance and privileges of “Travel document” developed by the SMS which will enable persons who obtained refugee status in the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as their family members to travel abroad. He noted that “Travel document” is a document giving right to travel outside the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan in accordance with the 1951 Convention on the Status of Refugees.
Service chief mentioned that the “Travel document” prepared in compliance with international requirements and standards is granted for 5 years: “From now on refugees can easily travel to other countries by obtaining the “Travel document”. Travelling outside of the country from which asylum was received is particularly essential for a refugee. This will ensure their comprehensive integration to Azerbaijani society. For instance, visits for education, trainings or labor activity can be an important chance in addressing their problems.”
Vusal Huseynov stated that from now on issuance of “Travel document” to 83 foreigners, residing in the country with refugee status, will be launched.
Delivering speeches Head of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Representation in Azerbaijan Vladimir Gjorgjiev, Chief of the Law division of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Representation in Azerbaijan Octavian Mohorea and Chair of the Public Council under the State Migration Service Azar Allahveranov noted the significance of refugees’ integration, and mentioned that the “Travel document” to be issued by the Azerbaijani state will create additional opportunities for persons residing with refugee status and as a result of application of this novelty they can easily travel to other countries.
Later “Travel documents” were presented to persons who obtained refugee status in Azerbaijan.
Within the framework of the event www.migrationto.az website was presented, as well. This website which was developed within the framework of EU-funded “Support to the Implementation of Mobility Partnership with Azerbaijan (MOBILAZE)” project implemented by the International Center for Migration Policy Development is intended to inform foreigners and stateless persons visiting the Republic of Azerbaijan about the services provided by the relevant state agencies, as well as culture, history, customs, tourist attractions of the country and to promote tourism and investment potential of Azerbaijan. The language opportunities of the website which is currently functioning in 3 languages (Azerbaijani, English and Russian) are considered to expand in the future.
Information on migration legislation of the Republic of Azerbaijan and recent amendments made to the legislation was delivered and opinion exchange was conducted at the end of the event.
