The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group, Stephane Visconti of France, Andrew Schofer of the U.S., and Igor Khovaev of Russia issued a statement Thursday calling on Armenia and Azerbaijan to immediately resume negotiations under the auspices of the group.
Below is the announcement.
The Co-Chairs view with concern recent incidents along the Armenia – Azerbaijan border, including reports of casualties and the loss of life. The Co-Chairs call upon Armenia and Azerbaijan to de-escalate the situation immediately, refrain from provocative rhetoric and actions, and implement fully their commitments under the November 9 statement and other jointly agreed ceasefire arrangements.
The Co-Chairs reiterate the need for a negotiated, comprehensive, and sustainable settlement of all remaining core substantive issues of the conflict and urge the parties to return to negotiations under the auspices of the Co-Chairs as soon as possible. They reiterate their proposal to organize direct bilateral consultations under their auspices, in order for the sides to review and agree jointly upon a structured agenda, reflecting their priorities, without preconditions.
The Co-Chairs reconfirm their strong support for the ongoing efforts of the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and his team.
