We Are Ready to Support Those Who Will Use the Negotiating Table, Not the Battlefield - OSCE Chair

The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and North Macedonia’s Foreign Minister, Bujar Osmani, encourages both the Armenian and Azerbaijani sides to address the issues of delimitation and demarcation, as well as the opening of communication routes. He made this statement at a joint press conference following a meeting with Armenia's Foreign Minister in Yerevan.

Osmani first highlighted that previously, he had talked with Armenia's Foreign Minister about concerns regarding the Lachin Corridor and its impact on the lives of the population.

“The current situation, in the context of Armenia-Azerbaijan, remains a priority for the OSCE, as it is for me in my capacity as OSCE Chairperson,” said Bujar Osmani.

Before his visit to Armenia, Osmani also had meetings in Baku the day before. “As Chair, we strive for a peaceful, comprehensive, and sustainable resolution to the disagreements that raise concerns for Armenia and Azerbaijan. We are committed to continuing our efforts through the OSCE mechanisms and structures, with new ideas and approaches to achieve that goal. Ultimately, this is about the people, and for that reason, I will continue to encourage all parties to move forward through dialogue and negotiations, rather than through force and coercion in resolving disputes,” he stated.

Osmani supports any efforts that will bring positive dynamics, ensuring the full implementation of previously agreed measures and exploring new areas of agreement.

The OSCE Chairperson encourages addressing critical issues such as delimitation and demarcation, along with opening communication routes. As OSCE Chair, Osmani supports any initiative that leads to peace and facilitates dialogue, reduces tensions, and fosters trust towards managing relationships.

Emphasizing that he comes from a country that has endured the suffering of conflict, he mentioned that North Macedonia has utilized multilateral negotiation platforms to tackle complex issues with its neighbors. “From our experience, we see that the negotiation process can be challenging and intricate; however, the prospect of friendly relations and lasting stability and prosperity emerges as a result,” he said, adding that they are ready to share that experience and support all parties that choose to utilize the negotiating table, rather than the battlefield.