OSCE MG touched upon issue of mines in Karabakh

OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs (Igor Popov from the Russian Federation, Stephen Visconti from France and Andrew Shoofer from the United States of America) made a statement today, reports the OSCE.

The co-chairs are noted with satisfaction to maintain the cease-fire regime and carefully follow the implementation of the agreement reached by the parties (the three-sided statement of the Presidents of Russia, Azerbaijan and the Prime Minister of Armenia – Ed.) November 10, 2020. The co-chairs welcoming significant achievements regarding the return of the remains of the dead and ongoing progress on the settlement of persons displaced as a result of the conflict, the provision of humanitarian aid and appropriate living conditions, as well as constructive discussions aimed at unlocking transport and communication lines throughout the region.

Co-Chairs are reminded of parties that additional efforts are needed to solve the remaining problematic issues and creating an atmosphere of mutual trust contributing to a solid peace. This includes issues related, in particular, with the exchange of all data necessary to carry out effective demining the region of the conflict, the preservation and protection of religious and cultural heritage, the establishment of direct contacts and cooperation between communities affected by the conflict, as well as other confidence-building measures. .

Co-Chairs also express their strong support for continuing activities and the possible expansion of the Mission of the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairman and urge the parties to provide full access and assist its efforts. The co-chairs emphasize their willingness to resume workers visits to the region, including Karabakh and surrounding areas for their assessment. In this regard, the co-chairs are reminded of parties about the requirement to ensure unobstructed access and maximum movement flexibility regarding the routes of travel of co-chairs in accordance with their mandate and previous practice.