Azerbaijan-Armenia crisis: EU suggests 'unique political project based on mutual respect'

European Union supports international efforts to ease tensions between Caucasus neighbours of Armenia and Azerbaijan following ir war late last year, EU council Chief Charles Michel said on July 17. Speaking on his visit to Armenian capital of Yerevan, Michel expressed bloc’s support to Minsk Group, a group of countries aimed aT negotiating a resolution to conflict over contested region.

conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan commenced in September last year and soon escalated in what experts labelled as a “regional war.” As attacks and ambushes escalated, it drew involvement from Turkey and Russia. dispute claimed over 6,500 lives, mostly civilians from warring sides, before a Russia brokered peace pact, led to Armenia ceding areas it h controlled for deces.

However, peace was short-lived and in May, Armenia accused Azerbaijan of crossing its sourn boundaries. Since n, tensions have escalated with both countries reporting occasional shootouts along ir shared border. Pertaining to same, EU Council chief called on w dormant Minsk group to “assume its responsibilities” and “dress different topics.”

Yerevan was first leg of Michel’s tour which aims at rekindling European Union’s relationship with South Caucasus region. In Armenia, he met Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and later attended a press conference. Speaking to media reporters, Michel said that EU has ambition to have a loyal, engd and active relationship with region that would contribute to its stability, prosperity and security.

India expresses concern over conflict

As tensions escalated in May, India expressed concern over situation along Armenia-Azerbaijan border as country called for peaceful resolution of disputes between two countries. spokesperson of Ministry of External Affairs, Arindam Bagchi said that peace in South Caucasus region is important for regional security.

He said, “We have been following, with concern, situation along Armenia-Azerbaijan border. Border incursions through military movements can destabilise situation and le to renewed hostilities. We call upon transgressing side to pull back forces immediately and cease any furr provocation”. 

Im: AP