Sergey Markedonov: "It is Nagorno Karabakh's turn to comment on Declaration signed in Moscow"

"Declaration on Karabakh that was signed by Armenian and Azerbaijani presidents in Moscow has become one of the key subjects of regional political discussions. After Azerbaijan and Armenian politicians and experts and the 'interested' parties in the USA, Russia and EU, have commended on the issue, Nagorny Karabakh should comment on the topic, Sergey Markedonov, Ph.D. (Hist.), head, department of ethnic relationships, Institute of Political and Military Analysis, told ArmInfo.

"One can perceive this de-facto formation in the South Caucasus in different ways. It is the only fully unrecognized republic since Russia has recognized Abkhazia and South Ossetia. One can recognize its existence as reality like OSCE MG mediators do or US congressmen who allocate not big funds for implementation of social projects inside Nagorny Karabakh Republic. One can deny NKR people's right to existence like Azerbaijan and Turkey (less willingly) do considering it just occupation of 'Azerbaijani original lands' by Armenia", he said.

However, he said, in case of any other approach to the phenomenon of Nagorny Karabakh, it is evident that the settlement of the protracted confrontation is impossible without the stance of Stepanakert, this 'shady' participant in the conflict and the peace process.

"By the way, a number of experts in Azerbaijan come out for a dialogue of Baku and their citizens, Armenians by origin, since in compliance with Azerbaijani legislation, Nagorny Karabakh is party of Azerbaijan and the people residing there must be theoretically considered as part of the state", Markedonov said.

/ArmInfo/