February 21, 2013 - 14:49 AMT
Iran envoy warns against deploying peacekeepers in Karabakh

Iran’s ambassador to Baku Mohsen Pak-Ayeen has warned against possible deployment of peacekeeping forces in Nagorno Karabakh, emphasizing that the move will cause “new security problems in the region.”

“The deployment of peacekeeping forces in Karabakh is not only an ineffective measure to resolve the issue, but will also create new security problems in the region,” Pak-Ayeen said, according to Press TV.

He said that the countries of the region can offer logical solutions to the conflict, while states and organizations outside the region must not meddle.

The Iranian envoy said, however, that the presence of peacekeeping troops in Karabakh is unlikely at the current juncture, saying the move requires certain grounds which have not been prepared yet.

Pak-Ayeen expressed Iran’s readiness to help resolve the Karabakh problem, saying “we are willing to fulfill our duties to settle the issue if the grounds are prepared.”

He added that maintaining ties with the conflicting sides would be an appropriate strategy for Iran, which holds the rotating presidency of the Non-Aligned Movement and helps strengthen peace and security in the region.