EDWARD NALBANDIAN: WAR IS NOT AN ALTERNATIVE TO PEACE TALKS

armradio.am
03.06.2008 13:41

"Now we are in a stage, when not only Armenia and Azerbaijan are
suggesting, but there are also concrete suggestions made by the
Co-Chairs in Madrid in November 2007. We are ready to continue the
active talks based on these suggestions and we think that these provide
a good ground for approaching the solution," RA Foreign Minister
Edward Nalbandian said in an interview with Russian "Vesti" program.

However, according to him, only Armenia’s willingness is not enough,
Azerbaijan’s willingness is also necessary.

"I don’t think that the recent militant statements from Azerbaijan
will contribute to the establishment of an atmosphere of trust in
the negotiations. As a result of these, during the recent public
opinion poll 19% of the population spoke for military solution of
the issue. I think it’s a dangerous trend: for solving any conflict
it is necessary to prevent the propaganda, especially the military
propaganda, because law is not an alternative to peace talks. We hope
that the forthcoming meeting of the Presidents in Saint Petersburg
will really provide an opportunity to move towards continuation of
talks. We are optimistic, because there is an opportunity to resolve
the conflict," the Minister said.

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress