Michel: Only dialogue can help settle Armenia-Azerbaijan relations

PanARMENIAN.Net - President of the European Council Charles Michel believes only political dialogue can lead to a sustainable settlement of the situation in relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

"Prolonged conflicts in the region remain a fundamental challenge," Michel told the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Assembly on Thursday, November 30.

"They require renewed efforts in line with the principles and norms of international law. The EU stands ready to play its role to help prevent and resolve conflict. This includes building confidence and contributing to lasting and comprehensive settlements - including support for post-conflict rehabilitation measures."

According to him, the relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan show the fragility of the situation.

"I am totally convinced that only political dialogue can lead to a sustainable settlement. It will also require civil society in Armenia and Azerbaijan to come together, to build bridges and to help in reconciliation efforts," he added.

Armenian Prime Minister and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev are set to attend the Eastern Partnership Summit in mid-December, on the sidelines of which they have agreed to hold a meeting. Pashinyan and Aliyev last meet on November 26, at a summit arranged and hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin.