If I Were Not a Diplomat, I Would Say Let's Laugh at Azerbaijan's Explanation: Czech Ambassador on the Lachin Corridor

The Czech Republic's newly appointed ambassador to Armenia, Petr Piruncik, stated in an interview with Radio Free Europe that the European Union's current role regarding the Lachin Corridor is to ensure that the humanitarian situation is bearable. He emphasized that Armenians and Azerbaijanis must directly engage in resolving the issue.

Highlighting that according to the tripartite statement signed in November 2020, Russia is responsible for transportation in the area, the ambassador noted that the main party to inquire about the situation, what is happening next, and what actions will be taken is Russia.

“They agreed to ensure that the corridor remains open and that peace is maintained in that area,” Piruncik said.

The ambassador emphasized that he is aware of what is happening in the Lachin Corridor, noting that he would laugh at Azerbaijan's official explanation if he were not a diplomat. “Of course, it appears a bit ridiculous; I mean the official explanation that these are environmental activists who just happen to show up at the beginning of winter when it’s snowing and cold… If I were not a diplomat, I would say let’s laugh at this explanation. We, of course, cannot laugh at the current situation because it truly leaves 120,000 people in the cold, without the means to meet basic medical needs, and in need of humanitarian assistance,” Piruncik stated.

He continued by discussing the actions of the Czech Republic and what the EU can do, reiterating that the Czech Republic is a member of the EU and thus supports joint EU activities. “The only viable solution or long-term sustainable peace agreement must be achieved through direct negotiations between Armenians and Azerbaijanis,” he concluded.