U.S. embassy replies to Azeri Deputy FM's remarks on OSCE MG Co-Chair

"Also, our sources in Washington tell us that the Co-Chair has close ties with Armenian Diaspora in the U.S., which holds a strong position on the settlement of the conflict. Even a cursory glance at the comments on social networks shows that the U.S. Co-Chair prefers to communicate more with Armenian Diaspora in the U.S.," Araz Azimov told APA.

"In general, some of his statements are provocative, with the co-chair spreading rumors about a possible escalation of the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Despite Warlick's statements regarding the importance of the Co-Chairs' neutrality, his own activity runs contrary to it. It is obvious that he is delivering speeches justifying Armenia's non-constructive position in the negotiations. According to media reports, the U.S. Co-Chair will address the event “The way forward and self-determination for Nagorno Karabakh Republic” organized by the Armenian Diaspora in California. A mediator’s participation in such events is unacceptable," Azimov said.

"We have repeatedly expressed our concern over the activity of the OSCE Minsk Group and statements of the U.S. Co-Chair. We can not turn a blind eye to the steps of Warlick, reducing confidence in the Minsk Group, running contrary to the mandate of the Co-Chairs and undermining the negotiation process. All of these statements show that Warlick is consciously and deliberately taking these steps to ensure the interests of the Armenian side.

All of the aforementioned facts give the Azerbaijani side every reason to distrust the U.S. Co-Chair, refuse working with him and appeal to the OSCE Chairman-in-Office to recall Warlick from the post of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair," Azimov concluded.

The OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs will meet in Warsaw to discuss next steps with the parties on Nagorno Karabakh, the U.S. Co-Chair James Warlick said in his Tweeter post in late April.