Bryza urges Azeri, Armenian 'independent decisions'

"If I were them, I would prepare the public for compromises to settle the conflict. First of all, military action is out of the question. Secondly, no one [neither side] can gain everything," Matthew Bryza told a local TV channel.

According to Assa-Irada, Bryza reiterated that he believes the sides should make independent decisions, saying that preparing the parties for concessions is outside the co-chairmen's authority.

With regard to possible concessions of the Azerbaijani side, he said the country's territorial integrity should not be violated under any circumstances.

"We [the co-chairs] assumed the responsibility for peace talks and have now reached a stage that enables the presidents and the community to make decisions."

Bryza stated that the mediators excelled in mediating the peace process and developed a suitable "framework agreement", and it is now up to the presidents to make suggestions on how to improve the document.

Bryza reiterated that he binds great hope for reaching a solution to the Garabagh conflict in 2006.

The American intermediary is expected to visit the region in August. He is due to hold talks in Baku and then in Yerevan.

/AzerNEWS/