Baku court: Armenia inflicted heavy economic losses on Azerbaijan during occupation

Today, October 16, the Baku Military Court has continued with the reading of documents in the criminal case against Armenian nationals.

The session began with the presentation of a document concerning the economic damage and losses inflicted on Azerbaijan, Caliber.Az reports per Azertac.

It was noted that as a result of Armenia’s military aggression, the economic activities of enterprises in the territories of Azerbaijan had come to a complete halt during occupation, while the region’s economic resources were illegally exploited by Armenia — including through the sale of rights to foreign companies for the extraction of natural resources.

Azerbaijan’s economy, population, enterprises, and the state suffered enormous losses. During nearly 30 years of occupation, mineral deposits in these territories were illegally exploited by Armenia, generating significant profits. Throughout the occupation period, illegal extraction of ore and non-ore minerals took place, and all types of underground water resources were unlawfully used.

It was also noted that hydroelectric power plants in the Azerbaijani territories were exploited by Armenia during occupation without adherence to any environmental standards. Moreover, the population of the occupied territories was deprived of the opportunity to engage in agriculture, resulting in major economic losses for both the residents and the state.

Another document, titled “Damage Caused by Landmine and Unexploded Ordnance Contamination,” stated that during Armenia’s military aggression against Azerbaijan and the occupation of its territories, hundreds of thousands of landmines and unexploded ordnance were planted across the captured lands. Consequently, the full restoration of the liberated territories will require considerable time and substantial financial resources.

The trial in Baku continues against Armenian citizens accused of crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes — including the planning and waging of aggressive war — genocide, violations of the laws and customs of war, terrorism, financing of terrorism, the violent seizure and retention of power, and numerous other offences.

By Khagan Isayev