Dzhambulat Umarov: Cooperation with Azerbaijan and Turkey on security issues is beneficial for Russia

‘‘Cooperation with Azerbaijan and Turkey in the field of counter-terrorism would be very useful for Russia,’’ Minister of National Policy, External Relations, Press and Information of Chechnya Dzhambulat Umarov told Vestnik Kavkaza on the sidelines of the press conference Struggle against ISIS: the experience of the Chechen Republic." 

"I don’t know any active cooperation with our neighbors in the implementation of anti-terrorist actions. Nevertheless, I think it would be nice for us to cooperate more closely with the countries of the South Caucasus in this direction. Moreover, there is Armenia, which is an ally in the CSTO. If we could cooperate with Azerbaijan and Turkey regarding this issue, I'm sure we would find common ground and this would be beneficial for all parties, including in the geopolitical direction,’’ he stressed. 

Umarov pointed out that Chechnya and other North Caucasus republics support Russian military action in Syria against Islamic State. "All patriotic republics are ready to do everything that depends on them in order to maintain the course of the Russian leadership in the assistance that we are providing today to the Damascus authorities,’’ the minister said.

According to him, preventing youth from joining ISIS is being carried out at the highest level in Chechnya. "Ramzan Kadyrov is dealing with this problem, demonstrating it by personal example. We are looking to our leader, who clearly shows the right position for the youth in Russia."

In the course of the press conference, the Minister noted that every mistake in the fight against terrorism and extremism could be very significant for Russia. Each right step makes us sure we will protect our underground transport and streets from explosions.

At the same time, Dzhambulat Umarov pointed out that Russia has always found internal resources. "This reserve is the Russian nation, which is able to lead other people. We explain to the Chechen youth that the history of Russia and Chechnya has its own difficulties: war and deportation. It is impossible to forget. But the era of confrontation is over. We have stated that we are with Russia, and we will help to preserve our national identity. It is beneficial for Russia’s enemies to stir up inter-ethnic conflict. We are working with people and telling them that the Russian people are completely not to blame for the deportations and war," he explained.

‘’It is urgent to say whether we remain an integral country, or will become a raw-exports supplier to other countries. The broadcasting company ‘Put’ is working now in the framework of the ministry, which condemns all forms of religious extremism, particularly those covered by Islam. 

We continue our successful fight against terrorism in our region. If our opponent has no sense of proportion, they need to invent an excuse. We do not need this, as we have a great country and great ideals. Russia has changed, it is becoming stronger, the whole world understands this,’’ Dzhambulat Umarov concluded.