EU says solution of Karabakh conflict remains top priority
The European Union-Azerbaijan Cooperation Council has reviewed progress on the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Trend news agency reported referring to the EU website that the EU reaffirmed that the status quo is unacceptable and that the solution of this conflict remains a top priority.
Both sides reiterated their support to efforts made by the mediating OSCE Minsk Group.
The EU confirmed its complementary role in support of confidence building measures. The EU also expressed concern on incidents at the frontlines.
The EU urged the sides to maintain stability on the ground and to refrain from aggressive, belligerent statements and actions that would increase tension.
The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. Armenian armed forces have occupied 20 per cent of Azerbaijan since 1992, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts.
Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a ceasefire agreement in 1994. The co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group - Russia, France and the U.S. - are currently holding peace negotiations.
Armenia has not yet implemented the U.N. Security Council's four resolutions on the liberation of the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding regions.