EU backs Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty

/By Azernews/

By Nazrin Gadimova

A peaceful solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, in accordance with the international law, remains a top EU priority.

Federica Mogherini, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy made the remarks during the meeting with Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov in Baku on February 29, stressing that the European Union supports Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

“The OSCE Minsk Group is a format accepted by all sides, and endorsed by the UN Security Council,” she said, addressing the meeting. “Negotiations within the Minsk Group are aimed at reaching an agreement on practical steps that should be taken for a comprehensive settlement of the conflict.”

Armenia captured Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding regions from Azerbaijan in a war that followed the Soviet breakup in 1991. More than 20,000 Azerbaijanis were killed and nearly 1 million were displaced as a result of the war.

The EU, which is not directly involved in the conflict resolution, has repeatedly stated that the status quo is unacceptable and supports diplomatic settlement of the conflict within the framework of the Minsk Group. The peace talks have been largely fruitless so far despite the efforts of the MG co-chair countries over 20 years.

Federica Mogherini said that the co-chairs have launched new mediation efforts and EU’s support to this process, including through the EU Special Representative Herbert Salber, has been, and will continue to be, unwavering.

“The EU will continue to support all actions aimed at peace building and the establishment of direct contacts between people separated as a result of the conflict,” Mogherini said.

She further added that there will no contradiction between these activities and the efforts of the Minsk Group; both are important for long-term reconciliation.

Minister Elmar Mammadyarov, in turn, emphasized Azerbaijan’s aspiration for the soonest settlement of the long-lasting Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict.

“We do not believe that this conflict is ‘frozen’. The EU, together with the Minsk Group should also give an impetus to get this conflict moving,” he stressed.

The Azerbaijani officials have repeatedly expressed concern over the delayed conflict resolution process, with some of them proposing to make substantial changes in the format of the mediating Minsk Group.

However, despite the concerns and efforts of foreign governments and international organizations Armenia doesn't give up its non-constructive position. Armenia has not yet implemented the U.N. Security Council's four binding resolutions on its pullout from Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding regions.

Mogherini, in an exclusive interview to Trend, said that a central part of the talks within the Minsk Group is to find agreement on practical steps towards a comprehensive settlement of the conflict.

“Only a few months ago, in December 2015, both President Aliyev and President Sargsyan confirmed they will keep engaging on current proposals. This is vital: ultimately, it is up to your countries' leaders to show courage and move towards peace,” Mogherini believes.

“It is no secret that the current status quo is unsustainable. Over the past year we have witnessed an escalation of violence along the line of contact: no one can afford to keep going down this path,” she added.

Mogherini went on to add that everyone has a duty to refrain from provocative statements and to work to de-escalate the situation on the ground.

“Over the past year heavy weapons were used, civilians were targeted. The current instability has huge costs for both sides. Peace, on the other hand, would allow for the opening of borders, facilitate trade and communications. Peace could make your region a prosperous gateway between Europe and Asia,” she concluded.