Ilham Aliyev: Karabakh status issue of futureJuly 6, 2009 - 15:39 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Role of Russia as a mediator for resolution of the Nagorno Kraabkha conflict is significant, the Azerbaijani President said."The recent presidential meeting was efficient enough. We do see Russia's aspiration to help the sides reach an agreement. The process is complicated but we are moving in the right direction," Ilham Aliyev said. He said he understands the concerns of people living in Karabakh. "We are ready to consider the issue of secure overland communication," Aliyev said. "We do not see Nagorno Karabakh as an independent state. Our task is to ensure security of people of all nationalities and establish communication. We do not want war although we are building the military potential," he said. As to status of Karabakh, the Azerbaijani President said that the OSCE Minsk Group's proposals envisage gradual withdrawal of troops "from the occupied regions." "The initial stage supposes withdrawal from 5 regions. Withdrawal from Lachin and Kelbajar is expected within 5 years after the peace agreements come into effect. We think it's a compromise term," Aliyev said, Vesti TV channel reported. Top stories Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev arrived in Moscow on April 22 to hold talks with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". Partner news | SBP instant transfers now available from 190 Russian banks to Armenia To receive money from Russian banks, easywallet users need to go to their easywallet accounts. Lemkin Institute urges Armenia to respect people’s right to dissent The Lemkin Institute has urged the Armenian government to respect people’s fundamental human right to express their dissent. French-Armenian journalist returns to France after 41-day hunger strike Nicolian said on social media on Sunday, June 2 that he needs to improve his health in order to “continue the fight”. Iran’s Red Crescent sends aid to Armenia’s flood-hit regions The Iranian Red Crescent Society has sent humanitarian aid to the victims of deadly floods that hit northern Armenia on May 25-26. |