Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website
Nov 20 2009

Russia does not link Nagorno-Karabakh, Armenia-Turkey processes – spokesman

Russian MFA Spokesman Andrei Nesterenko Response to Media Query
Regarding "Association" between Processes of Nagorno Karabakh
Settlement and Normalization of Armenian-Turkish Relations
1751-19-11-2009

Moscow has taken note that some Armenian media have raised a fuss
about the remarks made by the Russian MFA Spokesman on November 17.
They allege that Moscow has changed its position and now links the
processes of the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement and Armenian-Turkish
rapprochement. This is a misunderstanding. Foreign Minister Sergey
Lavrov has repeatedly clarified Russia’s point of view. It remains
unchanged. These are two different processes.

We have a positive attitude to the bilateral documents signed by
Armenia and Turkey, which determine their subsequent actions towards
comprehensive normalization of state relations.

We believe that the establishment of good neighbourly relations
between Armenia and Turkey should objectively contribute to further
steps to promote peace and security in Transcaucasia.

As to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, despite continuing disagreements,
the parties have managed to achieve some definite progress in agreeing
on the basic principles for its settlement.

We see our role in facilitating this process, the search by the
parties for mutually acceptable solutions to the key issues, but
without the imposition on the conflict participants of any recipes
from outside. At the same time we believe that the primary
responsibility for the final choice should lie with the Azerbaijanis
and Armenians themselves. Russia will be ready to support the solution
option which will suit all parties involved, and if a compromise
agreement is reached to act as guarantor of the settlement. Clearly, a
viable solution will be the one that will enable returning stability
and tranquillity in Transcaucasia and in the post-conflict period help
to maintain the historically established geopolitical balance of
forces there and is not likely to transform the region into an arena
of international political and military rivalry.

November 19, 2009