The fact of Armenia being a member of CSTO and EEU is no obstacle for the further development of relations with NATO, James Appathurai, NATO Secretary General’s Special Representative for the South Caucasus and Central Asia, told reporters in Yerevan.
“We respect Armenia’s balanced foreign policy and the fact that Armenia is a member of CSTO and the Eurasian Economic Union in no way holds us back from practical cooperation,” Appathurai said.
Before the press conference the NATO Representative held meetings with Armenian President, Foreign Minister, Defense Minister and at the National Assembly. “I conveyed NATO’s thanks for contribution that Armenian forces are making in Afghanistan, in Kosovo, as well as UN missions. Armenia was the first country in the South Caucasus to complete the process to be able to contribute to the new mission in Afghanistan. It’s another sign of reliable contribution that Armenia makes to international peace and stability,” he said.
As for regional security situation, Appathurai said: “Of course, NATO is not involved in the Karabakh conflict resolution process, but we look forward to a peaceful and diplomatic resolution as soon as possible.”
He said the recent incidents at the line of conflict are worrying. “We fully support the Minsk Group and their efforts,” Appathurai said.
Speaking about the killing of the family of six in Gyumri, NATO representative said: “First, this is a terrible human tragedy. Secondly, we have full confidence that the authorities here will find the appropriate solution to this difficult situation.”
