Not a lot happens in Moldova ... I think.
Some money laundering with someone from the Russian Federation that involved a NZ company. Massive amount of money.
But not as impressive as the amount of money the Mexican drug cartels turn over. Recent bust. LA garment district, I think it was. H.U.G.E. money. Something like $70 million in cash alone.
Azerbaijan and an autonomous republic seem to be buddies and the Pres of Az is related by marriage to the 'lord' of the landlocked district (Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic) -- Vasif Talibov.
Had to look that up. Trouble remembering: Nakchivan Nakhchivan.
Vasif Talibov is "said to run the region as his "personal fiefdom" and he:
"supported Heydar Aliyev after his return from Moscow to Nakhchivan to seize power and participated in the establishment of the New Azerbaijan Party (NAP) founded by Haydar Aliyev."
Just spotted a very strange link between Nakhchivan and a region in Austria - Styria (Steiermark). 'Cleantech' is the big money spinner in the region, which relates to recycling, renewable energy, grey water, information technology (odd man out?) etc.
Security forces said to use "excessive force against opponents of the ruling regime" and Talibov seen as member of ruling oligarchy "centred around the Aliyev family".
Ilham Aliyev, Az Pres is son of a former president of Azerbaijan (Heydar Aliyev, born Nakhchivan, & "ousted from Politburo by Gorbachev"), his government is described as 'autocratic' and is said to be corrupt.
US / Amnesty International allegations:
- election 'irregularities'
- crackdowns against journalists and opposition activists
- jailing of election monitors
"passed a referendum which removed the presidential consecutive term limit, thereby allowing him to run for president as many times as he wishes."
There's also a standing provision (couldn't be bothered checking again) that the president is immune from being sued or something like that.
Ilham Aliyev is described by Daily Mail as a "billionaire dictator" and a "despot" and the country is described as an "oil rich state".
In 2011 Prince Anderew stood down as UK trade envoy because of his relationship with Aliyev, who is accused of.
'...routine use of excessive and brutal force by police, restrictions on public protest, and the censorship imposed on bloggers and journalists who are beaten and imprisoned for criticising the government.’
Some other DM article indicates massive oil wealth and a population of fewer than 10 million.
Tried to find the 'missing princess' but I couldn't find her, so she must belong to some other country.
Did come across a photo of protester being savagely beaten, so maybe it's no bull about the human rights violations.
Too tired to look any more. It's just a snippet of Azerbaijan which will hopefully come in handy next time I read something associated.
EU-NATO IMPERIALISM ❌ 