Sergey Lavrov: On the South Caucasus, there is consensus in all areas

Sergei Lavrov's speech and answers to media questions on the results of the ministerial meeting of the consultative regional platform "3+3" for the South Caucasus

Tehran, 23 October 2023

The first meeting in this format was held in Moscow at the level of our deputies in December 2021. At this meeting, the Russian side, as the organiser of the event, presented its document outlining our vision of the prospects for practical cooperation projects (economy, energy, trade, transport, information and communication technologies, natural resources, humanitarian sphere, education, culture, tourism).

There is consensus in all these areas today. The parties have agreed that the countries involved will appoint special representatives. They will formulate national ideas within each of these areas.

Much attention was paid to the geopolitical situation in the region. They expressed satisfaction with the processes of normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, Azerbaijan and Iran, Armenia and Turkey.

What remains is to take practical steps towards full normalisation of relations [between Yerevan and Baku]. First of all, the preparation of a peace treaty, the demarcation of borders and the establishment of transport and economic links without obstacles.

Russia is not opposed to any contacts that Armenians and Azerbaijanis find useful. However, experts are well aware that only the Russian Federation has everything it needs to discuss and agree on delimitation, including maps left over from Soviet times.

Russia does not accept any acts of terrorism or violence in violation of international humanitarian law, including the indiscriminate use of force. We believe that the taking of people hostage and the blockade of populated areas with civilian populations must be prevented.

Our country remains ready to do everything possible to help stop the bloodshed and to discuss a long-term solution on the basis of the UN Security Council resolution. We have normal relations with Israel and Palestine.

(Izvestia/USA)