July 7, 2006 - 16:25 AMT
Bryza: Territorial Integrity and Self-Determination Principles Do Not Conflict
The OSCE Minsk Group's statement, which says that "there is nothing more to be achieved for determination of the peaceful principles of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict," does not mean that the talks reached a deadlock, OSCE MG American Co-Chair Matthew Bryza stated in an interview with BBC. The statement means that creative capabilities of the mediators are exhausted and these is need for new initiatives. "This is not a deadlock. This is a moment, when co-chairs say "now the leaders should make a decision on what they want," Bryza said.

In his opinion, both leaders have political will, wish cooperation, "but we do not know whether they are ready to concluding the basic principles of the framework agreement." "It is a time now, when the leaders should explain to their peoples the use of the peace plan, show the way of progress by concessions," Matthew Bryza underscored. "These are best proposals made up to now. I would say we are close to peace more than ever. However, I cannot guarantee that Presidents by using their sovereign rights will accept these proposals and will make changes that will fit both parties," he said.

In the Co-Chair's opinion, US statement on supporting territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and the principle of self-determination do not conflict. "If you pay attention to statements of the co-chairs, there are references to both principles there. The important thing is to find common points in those principles at the bargaining table," he said.