Azeri leaders' statements on Karabakh resolution by use of force mere blackmail

PanARMENIAN.Net - Azerbaijani Defense Minister's statements on resolution of the Karabakh conflict by use of force is mere blackmail aimed to destabilize talks, Armenia's Foreign Minister said.



"To respond to these warlike statements would mean to tense the situation on the threshold of the presidential meeting. We stand for peaceful process and understand that it's dictated by interests of the Armenian and Azeri people. However, the problem can't be resolved under Azerbaijan's constant militaristic rhetoric," Edward Nalbanidian told a news conference in Yerevan.



The Minister reminded that in 2001, after the Key West talks, the sides were close to resolution of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. "It did not happen because Azerbaijan said its population was not ready for settlement. According to recent social surveys, 29 per cent of Azeris stand for resolution of the conflict by use of force. 82 per cent disapprove the OSCE Minsk Group activities. I do not know any other country where so many people could speak out for war. It's absurd to condemn the countries wiling to help peaceful resolution of the conflict," Mr Nalbandian underscored.