CSTO: peace deal between Armenia, Azerbaijan vital for region

PanARMENIAN.Net - The Chief of the CSTO Joint Staff, Colonel-General Andrey Serdyukov, has stated that the escalation of tensions in Eastern Europe remains unprecedented, with instability persisting in the Caucasus region.

He added that the delimitation process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, along with the preparation of a peace treaty, continues to be one of the key components in eliminating instability in the South Caucasus, as reported by TASS.

"Western countries' attempts to strengthen their influence in the South Caucasus are causing tensions in the region," noted the Chief of Staff.

Additionally, he mentioned that the growing tension in the Middle East, as well as the threat of terrorism, significantly impact the situation. According to him, "In the Central Asian region, despite some positive changes observed in Afghanistan, the main sources of instability are threats to member states, including the spread of radical ideology, terrorism, and illegal drug trafficking."

Speaking about Eastern Europe, he said that NATO's military presence is strengthening along the borders of Russia and Belarus.

"All this indicates that, under conditions of deep and rapid changes in the global world order, the situation in the CSTO's area of responsibility and the dynamics of its changes require our close attention and readiness to respond appropriately and effectively," Serdyukov stated.

On January 16, the Armenian Foreign Ministry announced that an agreement had been reached between Armenia and Azerbaijan on a new section of delimitation. The agreement provides for the start of work from the northern section, from the junction of the borders of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, and continues southward to the borders of Armenia and Azerbaijan with Iran.