Russia’s Representative to the UN: Armenian-Azerbaijani reconciliation is unthinkable without reliable security guarantees of the inhabitants of Nagorno-Karabakh

“Armenian-Azerbaijani reconciliation is unthinkable without reliable, clear security guarantees and the observance of the rights of the inhabitants of Nagorno-Karabakh based on recognized international principles in the context of the laws of Azerbaijan,” the Representative of the Russian Federation to the United Nations said at the UN Security Council Emergency Session.

At the same time, he noted that the 2020-22 statements of the leaders of Russia, Armenia and Azerbaijan remain a road map with no alternative for the conciliation of Baku and Yerevan. He said that the key elements of the trilateral agreements are delimiting and, subsequently, demarcating the Armenian-Azerbaijani border, with Russia’s expert assistance.

“During talks between the foreign ministers of the Russian Federation, Azerbaijan and Armenia on July 25 in Moscow, we proposed realistic, compromise-based solutions to de-escalate tensions, entailing the parallel opening of humanitarian corridors through Aghdam and Lachin for the movement of civilians and non-military goods, which would create prerequisites for a direct dialogue between the authorized representatives of Baku and the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh. We also demand that parties refrain from the politicization of humanitarian aid.”

He expressed hope that all parties will show political will to overcome the disastrous situation in Nagorno-Karabakh and will contribute to a lasting dialogue between Baku and Stepanakert. According to the Russian Representative, they are doing their best to quickly resolve the crisis between their friendly countries Azerbaijan and Armenia.

“We are doing everything possible, through both political and diplomatic channels, at all levels and on the ground, so that the Russian peacekeeping mission prevents a humanitarian catastrophe in the region. We continue to maintain active contact with all parties to ensure the quick supply of food, medication, and other essential goods as well as the provision of gas and electricity,” he said.

It should be noted that the UN Security Council Emergency Session was convened at the request of the Armenian government. Yerevan called on the UN Security Council to prevent mass atrocities, including war crimes, ethnic cleansing, crimes against humanity and genocide.