Azerbaijan not ready to abandon maximalist stance on Karabakh

PanARMENIAN.Net - NKR parliament speaker Ashot Ghulyan made remarks on the forthcoming meeting of the Armenian and Azerbaijani Presidents in Saint Petersburg.



"Judging from the optimism of the mediators, progress in coordination of the fundamental principles of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict settlement is possible. Of course, we should hope, but statements by the Azeri officials prove that they are not ready to abandon maximalist stance, what conflicts with the logic of the negotiation process. Thus, we can only guess about a chance to reach an agreement," he said.



When commenting on the hearsay on surrender of Karabakh-controlled regions in exchange for a deferred referendum Ghulyan said, "If something is being discussed it means that somebody wants it."



"It's surprising that during such kind of discussions no one cites the newly adopted NKR Organic Law, which reads "Before restoration of territorial integrity of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic and definition of borders, public authority is exercised on the territory under jurisdiction of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic" (article 142). In other words, artificial competitions are inappropriate. The NKR Constitution has the supreme juridical power and its norms operate immediately (article 7.1). In conclusion I would like to mention that the status of these territories has been fixed in our Organic Law. The international law states Constitution as the supreme will of any nation," he underscored.



"There are many ways to activate the process but they all need thorough discussion. In absence of basis for such consideration all talks become hypothetical. I think statements on adherence to ceasefire and resolution of all complex issues peacefully could become a good ground. Certainly, it's not a novelty but it will demonstrate sincerity of the sides. The mediators feel necessity in establishing trust in the region. This aspect demands a stepwise approach. The remaining issues can be settled in the atmosphere of trust and good will. And last but not least, negotiations should proceed in the fixed format in accordance with the commitments the parties have undertaken," he resumed, IA Regnum reports.