Jeyhun Bayramov expressed concerns regarding the Russian Investigative Committee’s decision to close the criminal case related to the AZAL airplane crash.

Bayramov made these comments while answering journalists' questions during the presentation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ annual report.

According to Bayramov, the Russian Investigative Committee sent Azerbaijan a letter regarding the investigation into the crash of the AZAL aircraft.

“The letter contained elements that caused us serious surprise. The main issue was the indication in the letter that the criminal case was being closed." Bayramov said.

Undoubtedly, this step raises serious questions for us. The relevant authorities have sent the necessary response to this letter,” he added.

He further emphasised that Azerbaijan’s expectations concerning the AZAL plane crash are based on the fulfillment of Russia’s commitments.

“Yesterday marked the anniversary of the tragic plane crash. I express my condolences to the families of those who perished in this catastrophe."

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The fact that the plane was shot down was eventually acknowledged by the Russian side, and a statement regarding compensation was made. This was a very important declaration. Our expectation is the full implementation of this process,” he said.

According to an interim report released by Kazakhstan on the Azal air incident, evidence suggests that the crash happened not due to any technical malfunction, but as a result of external interference.

The conlcusion was reached by Kazakhstan and experts from Azerbaijan, Russia, Brazil, and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).  

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