Azerbaijan has barred 31 Turkish citizens from entering the country, including lawmakers, journalists, bloggers and political figures, in a rare public dispute between the traditionally close allies.
The move comes amid growing controversy over Baku's decision to prevent schoolgirls from wearing Islamic headscarves in schools.
Tensions over school dress rules
The row intensified last month after Azerbaijan introduced new school uniform regulations prohibiting accessories deemed incompatible with the country's secular principles.
Although headscarves are not explicitly mentioned in the rules, reports that girls wearing the hijab were denied entry to schools sparked strong reactions in Turkey.
Baku cites security concerns
Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry said those barred from entry had posted statements on social media targeting the country's sovereignty, security, constitutional order, population and leadership.
According to the ministry, some of the individuals had advocated the violent overthrow of the government and promoted hatred and religious hostility. No further details were provided.
Baku also warned that additional "appropriate measures" could follow.
Politicians and journalists affected
Those prohibited from entering Azerbaijan include a lawmaker from Turkey's opposition DEM Party, journalists, bloggers, religious commentators and a former member of the ruling AKP.
Despite the move, Ankara has not lodged a formal protest.
The Turkish presidency said Presidents Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Ilham Aliyev spoke by telephone but made no public reference to the entry ban. According to the statement, Erdoğan stressed that the two countries, linked by "brotherly ties", would continue taking cooperation to "new levels".
Turkish criticism
Ömer Faruk Gergerlioğlu, a DEM Party MP among those barred, described the decision as a sign of weakness.
"I see it as ridiculous. I see it as a sign of weakness. The Aliyev government oppresses its own people and cannot tolerate criticism even from a parliamentarian of a neighbouring country," he said.
He also accused the Turkish government of remaining silent to preserve what he described as "an alliance of interests".
Meanwhile, Fatih Erbakan, leader of Turkey's New Welfare Party, who was also banned from entering Azerbaijan, mocked the decision.
"It would be enough for us if the headscarf ban were lifted. We do not even need to go to Azerbaijan," he said.
Source: CNA
