The need for an enduring political solution on the status of Nagorno-Karabakh is essential for securing regional peace and stability, a spokesperson for the US Embassy in Armenia told Public Radio of Armenia.
“As a Minsk Group Co-Chair, the United States is committed to reinvigorating the engagement to find a permanent settlement to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict that protects the security of Nagorno-Karabakh and ensures another war does not break out,” the spokesperson added.
The Embassy also referred to the statement of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs of April 13.
In the statement the Co-Chairs noted with satisfaction the consolidation of the ceasefire. They welcomed the significant achievements with regard to the return of the remains of the deceased, and the ongoing progress with regard to the resettlement of those displaced by the conflict, provision of humanitarian assistance and adequate living conditions, as well as constructive discussions aimed at unblocking transportation and communication lines throughout the region.
The Co-Chairs reminded the sides that additional efforts are required to resolve remaining areas of concern and to create an atmosphere of mutual trust conducive to long-lasting peace. These include issues related to, inter alia: the return of all POWs and other detainees in accordance with the provisions of international humanitarian law, the exchange of all data necessary to conduct effective demining of conflict regions; the lifting of restrictions on access to Nagorno-Karabakh, including for representatives of international humanitarian organizations; the preservation and protection of religious and cultural heritage; and the fostering of direct contacts and co-operation between communities affected by the conflict as well as other people-to-people confidence building measures.
The Co-Chairs called on the parties to resume high-level political dialogue under the auspices of the Co-Chairs at the earliest opportunity. They reiterated their proposal to organize direct bilateral consultations under their auspices, in order for the sides to review and agree jointly upon a structured agenda, reflecting their priorities, without preconditions.
