Attempts of Brotherhood by Armenia Are Unacceptable - Cavusoglu

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey, Mevlut Cavusoglu, commented on the closure of the Lachin corridor, the only route connecting Artsakh to Armenia by Azerbaijan, stating that recent events there will undoubtedly serve as a test of sincerity for Armenia.

“The close cooperation with our brotherly Azerbaijan continues at the highest level. Ankara is closely coordinating its steps regarding the normalization of relations with Armenia with Baku. The recent events on the Lachin corridor will undoubtedly be a test of sincerity for Armenia. Attempts at brotherhood are unacceptable,” said Cavusoglu.

Recall that on the morning of December 12, a group of Azerbaijanis in civilian clothes closed the Stepanakert-Goris highway, which connects Artsakh to Armenia, under the pretext of environmental reasons at the intersection near Shushi-Karin Tak. The Lachin corridor remains closed. Azerbaijani “environmentalists” claim that the exploitation of mines in the zone of responsibility of Russian peacekeepers should be stopped.

Recently, the government of the Republic of Artsakh reiterated that mining in Artsakh is conducted according to the highest international standards, complying with the regulations set forth in the sector’s legislation.

“However, considering the unhealthy environment created by the 'eco-activists' of the neighboring country and attempts to mislead the international community, it has been decided to appeal to international organizations for an international ecological examination of the activities of the 'Base Metals' company. A decision has been made in conjunction with the company’s leadership to temporarily suspend the exploitation of the mine until the examination is completed. The government of the Republic of Artsakh has contacted the relevant UN bodies and other international professional organizations to organize the examination within a short timeframe. The government has always supported the maintenance of the best international standards in the mining sector and is convinced that international ecological standards should be applicable to all mining companies in the region,” stated the government’s announcement.