Interfax, Russia
Dec 25 2009

Azerbaijan expects Turkey to help solve Nagorno-Karabakh problem

BAKU Dec 25

Azerbaijan expects Turkey to assist in attaining progress in settling
the problem of Nagorno-Karabakh, Azeri Foreign Minister Elmar
Mammadyarov said in Ankara, where he is on an official visit.

"It is important for us that Turkey, a major and authoritative
regional state, should inform us and take steps so that we resolve
these issues and make progress sooner," Mammadyarov said at a joint
press conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu
following their meeting.

Davutoglu said that, along with Azerbaijan and Armenia, the OSCE Minsk
Group co-chairs should do all they can to resolve this issue.

"Because we believe that the path that has been covered over the past
seven or eight months is longer than that made over the previous 17
years, and peace in the Caucasus is nearer now," he said.

"So as not to miss peace, it is time for all to think about this," he said.

"Neither party should expect benefits from the frozen conflicts.

Resolving these crises together, the parties should come to an
agreement, which would provide chances for our people to become
closer.

Turkey and Azerbaijan enjoy full coordination and interaction in this
issue," he said.