BAKU (PanARMENIAN.Net–Armenpress)–OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair Matthew Bryza–in an interview with the Azeri Service of BBC–said that the Minsk Group’s statement–which says "there is nothing more to be achieved for determination of the peaceful principles of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict," does not mean that the talks have reached a deadlock.
Bryza commented that the statement means creative capabilities of the mediators have been exhausted and there is a need for new initiatives. "This is not a deadlock. This is a moment when co-chairs say ‘now the leaders should make a decision on what they want,’" he said.
In his opinion–both leaders have the political will and wish cooperation–"but do not know whether they are ready to conclude the basic principles of the framework agreement."
"It is a time now–when the leaders should explain to their people the use of the peace plan–show the way of progress by concessions," Bryza added. "These are the best proposals proposals put so far. I’d say that we are as close to peace now as ever before. However–I cannot guarantee that the presidents–using their sovereign rights–will accept these proposals and will make changes that will fit both parties."
According to the co-chair–statemen’s by the United States supporting the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and the principle of self-determination for Nagorno-Karabakh do not contradict each other.
"If you pay close attention to the statemen’s by the co-chairs–they refer to both principles. The most important is to find contacts between these principles at the negotiation table," he said.
Late last month–Bryza leaked confidential principles of the OSCE proposed plan.