Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Co-Chairman of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, today welcomed the long-awaited release of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu, an imprisoned Azerbaijani economist, anti-corruption advocate, and former New Jersey resident. Dr. Ibadoghlu has safely arrived in Berlin for urgently needed medical treatment.

                “I am overjoyed that Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu is finally free and safe in Germany, where he can receive the medical care he so urgently needs,” said Smith, who has consistently advocated for Dr. Ibadoghlu’s release and access to medical care since his arrest in 2023.

                “This is a wonderful day for Gubad; his wife, Irada; their children; and all those who have stood with this courageous family,” he continued.

                “Gubad’s son, Emin—a New Jersey resident—and the entire Ibadoghlu family were extraordinary in their steadfastness and determination. They never stopped working for Gubad’s freedom, building support for him across governments, parliaments, human rights organizations, universities, and civil societies around the world. Their persistence and courage have been remarkable, and today, they have every reason to rejoice.”

                Smith also expressed his gratitude for the German government and other U.S. officials, who worked tirelessly to secure Dr. Ibadoghlu’s release and safe arrival in Germany.

                Dr. Ibadoghlu’s son, Emin Bayramli, said, “We want to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has helped and supported our family throughout this difficult journey. We are especially grateful to Congressman Chris Smith, who have stood with our family from day one and have never stopped advocating on our behalf. We would also like to thank the German government, the State Department, and the Administration for their continued support and for all the assistance they have provided to our family.”

                “While we celebrate Gubad’s freedom today, I call upon Azerbaijani authorities to fully drop the criminal charges that remain against him following his release on medical grounds, as well as the charges against his brother,” stated Smith.

                “We must also remember the more than 300 political prisoners who remain in Azerbaijan. Their families are still waiting, and I will continue to advocate for their freedom and ensure that their cases are not forgotten.”

                For more than three years, Smith has remained a persistent and tenacious advocate for Dr. Ibadoghlu’s release and access to medical care.

                As his Defending Freedoms Project advocate, Smith has led congressional appeals to senior U.S. officials—including officials traveling to Azerbaijan and meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev abroad—and has repeatedly raised Ibadoghlu’s case in congressional hearings and public statements. Most recently, Smith pressed for his immediate release and the lifting of restrictions preventing him from obtaining medical treatment abroad.

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