Mirzoyan Highlights Firm Commitment to 1975 Map as Basis for Delimitation in Meeting with Lavrov

In a pivotal meeting held on July 25 in Moscow, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan engaged with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov to deliberate on a range of pressing regional matters. The meeting, attended by both sides, concentrated on regional security, the ongoing situation in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), and emerging humanitarian challenges.

Mirzoyan's emphasis on the escalating humanitarian crisis in Artsakh took center stage during the discussion. He underscored the gravity of the situation resulting from the illegal blockade of the Lachin corridor by Azerbaijan, pressing for an immediate resolution in line with the stipulations outlined in the Trilateral Statement of November 9, 2020, and the pronouncements of the International Court of Justice. The Foreign Minister accentuated the significance of collaborative action by the signatories of the Trilateral Statement and the utilization of available international mechanisms.

The two Foreign Ministers also delved into the process of normalizing relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Mirzoyan emphasized Armenia's dedication to employing the 1975 map as the foundational basis for ensuring utmost clarity in the upcoming border delimitation process. Additionally, discussions centered on the importance of reinstating economic and transport communications within the region, underscoring the vital role played by sovereign and jurisdictional rights of nations in the functionality of such channels. Mirzoyan further advocated for addressing the rights and security concerns of the Artsakh population within an international framework.

In the pursuit of constructive dialogue, Mirzoyan called for a collaborative and positive approach from the Azerbaijani side to reach mutual agreement on these critical matters.

Subsequently, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov addressed the results of the trilateral talks involving Foreign Ministers Jeyhun Bayramov of Azerbaijan and Ararat Mirzoyan of Armenia. Lavrov detailed the discussions that transpired in two rounds of bilateral negotiations between Russia and each of the aforementioned countries. The conversations primarily revolved around regional issues, with a particular focus on the situation in and around Artsakh.

Lavrov elaborated on the assessments provided by the Russian side, which underscored the urgent need to ensure the well-being of the population in Artsakh. The provision of essential resources such as food, medicine, and electricity was highlighted as an imperative, emphasizing the shared interests of ordinary people in the region.

As a vital mediator in the peace process, Russia remains committed to fostering a comprehensive and sustainable resolution aligned with the tripartite declarations of 2020, 2021, and 2022. Lavrov extended his hopes for the ultimate signing of a peace treaty between Baku and Yerevan, a significant milestone in the negotiation process.

The discussions concluded on a forward-looking note, with Lavrov expressing the intent to resume dialogue through various channels, including representatives of civil society and political experts. The Foreign Ministers acknowledged the interest of international mediators in facilitating agreements that genuinely reflect the interests of the Armenian and Azerbaijani peoples, while steering clear of political motivations.

The Moscow meeting underscores the ongoing efforts to address critical regional issues and pave the way for a sustainable and constructive dialogue among all concerned parties.