AZERBAIJAN NOT READY TO ABANDON MAXIMALIST STANCE ON KARABAKH

PanARMENIAN.Net
04.06.2007 18:07 GMT+04:00

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ NKR parliament speaker Ashot Ghulyan made remarks
on the forthcoming meeting of the Armenian and Azerbaijani Presidents
in Saint Petersburg.

"Judging from the optimism of the mediators, progress in coordination
of the fundamental principles of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict
settlement is possible. Of course, we should hope, but statements by
the Azeri officials prove that they are not ready to abandon maximalist
stance, what conflicts with the logic of the negotiation process. Thus,
we can only guess about a chance to reach an agreement," he said.

When commenting on the hearsay on surrender of Karabakh-controlled
regions in exchange for a deferred referendum Ghulyan said, "If
something is being discussed it means that somebody wants it."

"It’s surprising that during such kind of discussions no one cites
the newly adopted NKR Organic Law, which reads "Before restoration of
territorial integrity of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic and definition
of borders, public authority is exercised on the territory under
jurisdiction of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic" (article 142). In
other words, artificial competitions are inappropriate. The NKR
Constitution has the supreme juridical power and its norms operate
immediately (article 7.1). In conclusion I would like to mention
that the status of these territories has been fixed in our Organic
Law. The international law states Constitution as the supreme will
of any nation," he underscored.

"There are many ways to activate the process but they all need thorough
discussion. In absence of basis for such consideration all talks
become hypothetical. I think statements on adherence to ceasefire
and resolution of all complex issues peacefully could become a good
ground. Certainly, it’s not a novelty but it will demonstrate sincerity
of the sides. The mediators feel necessity in establishing trust in
the region. This aspect demands a stepwise approach. The remaining
issues can be settled in the atmosphere of trust and good will. And
last but not least, negotiations should proceed in the fixed format
in accordance with the commitments the parties have undertaken,"
he resumed, IA Regnum reports.