UK: Closure of Karabakh corridor could have severe humanitarian consequences

PanARMENIAN.Net - The United Kingdom remains deeply concerned at the recent closure of the Lachin corridor connecting Nagorno-Karabah to Armenia, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN James Kariuki told the UN Security Council emergency meeting on Armenia and Azerbaijan on Tuesday, December 20.

“ The Lachin corridor is the only means by which daily necessities can be delivered to the region. The closure of the corridor for over a week raises the potential for severe humanitarian consequences – especially in the winter. We also note with concern the civilians who have been stranded by the closure and urge that their unimpeded return is urgently prioritized,” Kariuki said.

“We are in touch with the governments of both Armenia and Azerbaijan. It is only through diplomacy, in line with the principles of the UN Charter, that lasting peace can be achieved. The United Kingdom continues to support the internationally-led negotiation efforts that seek to secure stability and peace in the region.”

For several days now, the key road has been blocked by Azerbaijanis who claim to be environmentalists. Azerbaijan had also deprived the people of Karabakh of gas supplies.”