Azerbaijan raises concerns over upcoming EU-Armenia-US conference
- 27 March, 11:09
Press Secretary of Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Aykhan Hajizada has expressed concerns over the upcoming EU-Armenia-USA joint conference set for April 5 in Brussels.
Making a statement on March 27, Hajizada raised issues related to the transformation of the European Union Monitoring Potential (EUMP) along the Armenian side of the delimited border into the European Union Mission in Armenia (EUM) without Azerbaijan's consent, which has been perceived as exploiting the mission for anti-Azerbaijani purposes.
The statement comes after a conventional briefing held on March 26, in which Matthew Miller, the Press Secretary of the US State Department, stressed the United States' dedication to promoting enduring peace in its engagements with Azerbaijan and Armenia. Miller remarked that every interaction of the United States with Azerbaijan and Armenia is directed towards achieving lasting peace, responding to inquiries about the forthcoming meeting involving Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen scheduled for April 5.
Miller emphasized the aim of resolving differences between the governments of Armenia and Azerbaijan and encouraging them to pursue a lasting peace agreement.
Moreover, Hajizada objected to France's efforts to militarize Armenia, citing promises of increased military equipment and statements from Greece regarding enhanced military cooperation with Armenia. The Ministry voiced concerns about plans to provide military assistance to Armenia within the framework of the European Peace Fund, highlighting that such activities undermine peace and stability efforts in the region.
Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry criticized the lack of transparency and regional involvement in the conference, arguing that it contradicts efforts for confidence-building and integration in the area. Hajizada cautioned that the EU and the US would be held responsible for any potential destabilizing actions by Armenia.
In conclusion, the Ministry reiterated its call for all parties to refrain from actions that could adversely affect peace efforts and lead to further escalation and tension in the region, stressing the importance of adhering to international law and principles.
