Turkey's Former Foreign Minister says the recently intensified efforts by Russia, Turkey and U.S. will have a positive impact on the resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
"I have noticed interest in the resolution of the problem recently. The problem will be solved with the mediation of the U.S., Russia and Turkey and international organizations," former Turkish Foreign Minister Hikmet Chetin told reporters.
The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. Armenian armed forces have occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan since 1992, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and 7 surrounding districts. Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a ceasefire agreement in 1994. The co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group - Russia, France, and the U.S. - are currently holding the peace negotiations.
Chetin said the Minsk Group has not made an important step towards the resolution of the conflict yet. "I think this problem can be solved via Armenia-Azerbaijan dialogue."
"Azerbaijani President will meet with the Armenian President in Prague. Foreign ministers will meet in Washington. I believe these meetings will impact resolution of the conflict," he added. He said non-resolution of the conflict has affected Armenia most of all thus far.
"Armenia is left aside of some economic projects in the region. Resolution of this problem is very important for entire region and specifically Armenia. Armenian officials must realize it," he said. Chetin said Russia's mediation is also needed to solve the problem. "I see positive changes in Russia's foreign policy regarding resolution of the conflict. I think Russia will take a positive step to resolve the conflict," former foreign minister added.
Chetin said Turkey will never adopt a decision contradicting Azerbaijan's interests. "There was some misunderstanding on this issue. We assure our Azerbaijan brothers that Turkey will never take a step to detriment of Azerbaijan's interests."
Trend News
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
