During the briefing, the diplomats were informed about the current situation and realities emerged in the region in the post-conflict period as well as the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

The Deputy FM noted that following the war, Azerbaijan came up with a peace initiative and declared its readiness to normalize relations with Armenia in accordance with the norms and principles of international law, particularly the principles of sovereign equality, territorial integrity and inviolability of borders of the both countries.

Araz Azimov said that from the first day, everyone was aware about this initiative, adding that the three tracks of peace process, namely, signing a peace treaty, delimitation of borders and opening of regional communications were being discussed at the negotiating table.

Highlighting Azerbaijan’s ongoing large-scale reconstruction and restoration process launched in the liberated territories, including the construction of airports in the territories located close to the borders of both countries, Azimov noted that instead, Armenia launched military provocations in the Azerbaijani territories where citizens of Armenian origin are resided, including created obstacles to flights, thus showing its true intentions.

He described Armenia’s statements, which are incompatible with logic and any norms of international law, despite Azerbaijan’s clear position regarding the peace agenda, as unacceptable.

Touching upon the situation regarding the Lachin road, Deputy FM Araz Azimov noted that this road is also a part of the sovereign territory of Azerbaijan and in this regard, Azerbaijan has established a border checkpoint in its territory for the use of its citizens. He pointed out that the Armenian side, which could not digest it, opened fire at Azerbaijani border guard, committed provocation against the Azerbaijani national flag, and continued to abuse the Lachin road.

The Deputy FM underlined that Armenia is the party that restricts the use of the Lachin road. He brought to the attention of diplomats that Azerbaijan has created conditions for the use of the road by Armenian residents for medical purposes, and proposed to use the Aghdam-Khankendi road for the supply of more products, which can contribute to their reintegration into the Azerbaijani society.

He also expressed gratitude to the countries that contributed to the peace talks, stressing the importance of the international community’s urging Armenia to remain committed to the constructive dialogue.

The briefing continued with a Q&A session.