Vahan Kostanyan, Deputy Foreign Minister of Armenia, in an interview with BBC, referred to the Yerevan-Baku settlement process, developments in the South Caucasus. He noted that Azerbaijan declares that it is interested in signing a peace treaty with Armenia, however, unfortunately, words are not enough, action is needed.
“The fact is that Azerbaijan shows reluctance to finalize the peace treaty based on the principles proposed by the international community,” the Deputy Foreign Minister stressed. He reminded that the Azerbaijani side has repeatedly refused to participate in negotiations aimed at settlement.
According to Kostanyan, the Armenian side is committed to the establishment of peace, discussions in that direction and the normalization of relations with neighboring Azerbaijan. He emphasized that Azerbaijan should recognize the territorial integrity of Armenia, there should be no uncertainties in this matter.
“It is necessary to have a clear border in accordance with the declaration of Almaty. Besides, it is necessary to reach an agreement on the principles of opening transport communications, which will take into account and respect the sovereignty of the countries,” Kostanyan said.
Referring to the statements of the Azerbaijani side that the forcibly displaced Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh can return to their homes and that Azerbaijan is ready to ensure their safety, Kostanyan emphasized. “None of the Armenians who left their ancestral homeland have returned there, it can be noted that they do not see security guarantees. I leave the conclusions to you.”
Kostanyan added that all this is happening despite the decision of the International Court of Justice, by which Azerbaijan undertakes to ensure the right of return of these people.
