U.S. calls for withdrawal of snipers from Karabakh conflict zone

PanARMENIAN.Net - U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton restated her country’s support for pulling back snipers from the frontlines as a step toward decreasing tensions in Nagorno Karabakh conflict zone in response to a question from Congressman Howard Berman regarding Azerbaijan's opposition to an OSCE Minsk Group proposal, backed by both Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh, for the withdrawal of snipers from the front lines.

“As a Co-Chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, the United States remains deeply committed to helping the sides in the Nagorno Karabakh conflict reach a lasting and peaceful settlement,” Secretary Clinton said.

“The U.S. has emphasized that the parties should show restraint in both their public statements and on the ground to avoid misunderstandings and unintended consequences. We reiterate at every opportunity that there is no military solution to the conflict and that only a peaceful settlement will lead to security, stability, and reconciliation in the region. We regret any loss of life and continue to call upon the sides to take steps – including the withdrawal of snipers – to improve the atmosphere for negotiations, prevent unnecessary casualties, and strengthen implementation of the ceasefire.”