“We have supported, support, and will support such a unifying agenda,” says Zakharova on the meeting of Armenian and Azerbaijani public and cultural figures

The official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, addressed the recent meeting of Armenian and Azerbaijani public and cultural figures in Moscow during her weekly briefing. According to Zakharova, the meeting achieved its goal, namely the restoration of friendly communication between the scientific and creative elites of the two neighboring countries, and the creation of a favorable backdrop for the gradual normalization of relations between Baku and Yerevan.

“The participants agreed on the role of intellectuals in reducing the level of distrust between the Azerbaijani and Armenian peoples. There was a demonstrated willingness for constructive dialogue, including discussions on sensitive humanitarian issues. This includes the return of Armenian prisoners of war by Azerbaijan and the provision of maps of minefields by Armenia. We have supported, support, and will support such a unifying agenda that contributes to reaching substantive agreements and fosters an atmosphere of progress,” said Zakharova.

According to Zakharova, the Russian side hopes that such meetings will take place regularly and that they will be held in both Azerbaijan and Armenia.