 The European Union raises serious concerns about detentions of independent journalists in Azerbaijan. The European External Action Service issued a statement on the recent detentions of journalists Ulvi Hassanli, Sevinj Vagivgizi, Mohamed Kekalov, Aziz Orijov, Rufat Muradli, Nagiz Absalamova, Teymur Keremov, Ibrahim Humbatov and Hafiz Babali. It is noted that human rights, including fundamental freedoms and the rule of law, are important elements of the relationship between Azerbaijan and the European Union. In this context, the recent arbitrary detentions of journalists Ulvi Hassanli, Sevinj Vagivgizi, Mohamed Kekalov, Aziz Orijov, Rufat Muradli, Nagiz Absalamova, Teymur Keremov, Ibrahim Humbatov as well as Hafiz Babali raise serious concerns about the narrowing space for independent journalism and limitations to freedom of expressions in Azerbaijan which run contrary to its international commitments. The European Union also regrets the arrest of human rights activist Ilhamiz Goliyev and political opposition leader Tophik Yakublu and the decision to extend the pre-trial detention of distinguished scholar and activist Gubad Ibadoglu and of civil society activist Bakhtiyar Hajiyev. The European Union calls on Azerbaijan to release those imprisoned for exercising their fundamental rights and to ensure free and unhindered space for independent journalism and freedom of expression. This statement also says the EU remains committed to continue the dialogue and cooperation on human rights with Azerbaijan.