A new stage of settlement of frozen conflicts in the Caucasus has begun, Turkish President Abdulah Gul said upon arrival in Baku.

"We can either wait or act. Presently, diplomats are working at the Caucasus Stability and Cooperation Platform," he said, adding that the international community is closely watching developments in the region.

Mr Gul also voiced hope that Russia will welcome the initiative, the Azeri Press Agency reports.