ONCE MORE ABOUT PRINCIPAL POSITION OF AZERBAIJAN ON RESOLUTION OF NAGORNO KARABAKH CONFLICT

Today.Az
cs/44990.html
May 15 2008
Azerbaijan

Day.Az correspondent asked deputy Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Araz
Azimov to voice principal position of Azerbaijan on the resolution
of the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict once again.

A.Azimov stated that Azerbaijan’s position is quite clear, as
it has been repeatedly voiced on the highest level clearly and
exactly. Nevertheless, the main principal positions can be shortly
formulated in the following manner:

1. The conflict should be settled in the framework of the territorial
integrity of Azerbaijan and this approach has no alternative.

2. The conflict solution should envision not only the liberation
of seven regions, surrounding Nagorno Karabakh. The main task is
the full restoration of the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and
preservation of Nagorno Karabakh within Azerbaijan to ensure its due
status. The return of seven regions around Nagorno Karabakh does not
ensure the complete resolution of the conflict.

3. Self-determination is only possible within the territorial
integrity of Azerbaijan. International law envisions
application of the said principle only in the form of internal
self-determination. International law does not envision and imply any
grounds for separation of a part of a state without agreement of the
said state;

4. The definition of the status of Nagorno Karabakh requires return of
Azerbaijani population, driven out of their native lands, and ensuring
their security, like to the Armenian population. Only after that the
definition of the status would be possible;

5. The road, passing Lachin, should be rendered for the equal and
mutual use of both parties. This would guarantee normal, safe and
stable functioning of this transport communication.

6. For development of Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan is ready to
undertake all measures, favorable for both communities, that will
reside in this region. The main obstacle for passing to this stage
is Armenia’s occupation of the Azerbaijani lands;

7. Principles of return of Azerbaijanis to Nagorno Karabakh, use
of the road, passing Lachin by both parties, and definition of the
status of the region within the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan
should be included in the draft main principles of the resolution of
the conflict. Only in this case will the discussions be effective;

8. Nagorno Karabakh should remain an integral part of Azerbaijan. This
will promote the resolution of the conflict and restoration of normal
ties between Armenia and Azerbaijan. If Armenia choses any other way,
it will gain nothing, except for animosity and isolation.