EU Diplomatic Spokesperson: 'Russia Has Clearly Misunderstood the Purpose of This Mission'

The EU has stated that the normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan should not become a hostage to Russian-EU competition, EU Foreign Affairs spokesperson Peter Stano told RIA Novosti.

He commented on the Russian Foreign Ministry's response to the launch of the EU's two-year mission aimed at stabilizing the region in Armenia.

Stano emphasized that Russia is mistaken in believing that the EU's role in the normalization process between Armenia and Azerbaijan is directed against Russia.

'Russia has clearly misunderstood the purpose of this mission and continues to misjudge the EU's involvement in the region. Most importantly, this is not Russia's business. The EU mission was launched at the request of the Armenian authorities and on their free will. The EU is, of course, in contact with the authorities of Azerbaijan on this matter as well,' he clarified, adding that the EU is aware of Russia's role in halting hostilities in November 2020.

'This mission is civilian and will serve as a key element in supporting efforts aimed at normalizing Armenian-Azerbaijani relations, which are being carried out by the EU. The European Union has embraced this role at the request of both parties,' the EU official said.

According to Stano, the mission's objective is, in particular, to strengthen the safety and confidence of the local population.

'All other news and speculations that are circulating on social networks these days are completely unfounded,' concluded the official.