KARABAKH CONFLICT MAY BE SETTLED THIS YEAR

YEREVAN, JULY 12. ARMINFO. The Karabakh conflict may be settled
already this year or in early 2006, a top diplomat says to Radio
Liberty.

Many issues have already been agreed on and the parties are now
working to overcome the last few contradictions in the text of the
settlement agreement.

The source says that the core of the agreement will be the conduct of
a referendum on the status of Karabakh in 10-15 years. Azerbaijan
recognizes the de facto status of Karabakh that is the right to
self-determination. Karabakh will control Lachin. The 5 territories
Karabakh is now controlling will be given back to Azerbaijan in
exchange for a referendum – to join Armenia, to join Azerbaijan or to
be independent.

The problem of peacekeeping has also be determined – keeping peace in
the zone will be countries other than the MG member states – this will
be acceptable to both Armenia and Azerbaijan as member to MG are both
Turkey and Russia.

The phased settlement scenario covers also Armenian-Turkish relations
– opening of border. As soon as the agreement is signed Turkey opens
its border with Armenia while Azerbaijan stops its blockade of
transport routes.