Day.Az interview with Honorary President of the Parliamentary Assembly of Western European Union (Brussels) Stef Goris.
How would you comment on Azerbaijan’s accusation that international community is rather concerned about improving socio-economic situation in Armenia also calling on Turkey to open border with this country than to resolve the Karabakh conflict?
I share this view. In my opinion, the international community should pay much more attention to resolving the Karabakh problem, as this conflict continues to hamper democratic reforms in the entire South Caucasus. It is like a dark shadow over the region. This conflict should be resolved.
Do you believe full democracy is impossible in the region until the Karabakh conflict is resolved?
Resolving the Karabakh problem is a precondition for the advancement of other reforms, such as reforms in the sphere of democracy, economy and social life. This problem should not remain in its current state. That is why I very well understand the appeal of President of Azerbaijan to the international community to contribute to resolving this conflict.
You said that the EU should play a more active role in settlement of the Karabakh conflict. France represents EU’s interests in the Minsk Group. In your opinion, is there any need to replace that country or include one more European country to the group?
I am confident that the EU must understand very clearly that there is a UN Security Council resolution, the text of which is very clearly states Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity. In my opinion, EU’s position is not strong and clear enough. EU spokespersons, commissioners, MPs often show certain flexibility and are too diplomatic about this issue, while the UN Security Council resolutions are clear. In such circumstances, I can only urge the EU to support the decisions taken at UN level.
/Today.Az/
