Karabakh conflict is festered by propaganda and enemy image, journalist Simone Zoppellaro, who regularly visits Armenia and Karabakh, said in an interview with Italian newspaper Mondo e Missione.
Why does war continue after 20 years?
The Armenian population of the region, which always constituted majority, wanted to reunite with the Armenian homeland, from which Stalin separated it in the 30s upon his personal decision. In the 80-90s conflict, they won, but the victory wasn’t confirmed by peace accord. Karabakh has got no oil; large resources have not been laid down at stake. But the conflict is strengthened by propaganda, which had created the image of the enemy. This propaganda is carried out against the backdrop of inequality in the society and lack of freedoms, which are characteristic features of the current regimes in the region.
April saw new escalation…
There were many losses, destroyed houses and schools. Internationally banned weapons - cluster bombs - were used by Azerbaijan against Armenians. The Armenian Talish village turned into a ghost village. The recent escalation brought about serious concerns. Peace is farther than ever.
Pope Francis visited Armenia, now he will also visit Azerbaijan…
The Holy Father was to visit Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan in the framework of one trip but then he made up his mind to first visit Armenia.
Azerbaijan is also important for the Holy See. Not so much because of the presence of Catholics, who are very few there, but more for launching an interreligious dialogue, to which the country’s leadership manifested readiness.
This is a Muslim-majority country, a not completely liberal one, which is, however, secular in many respects. Apart from this, Heydar Aliyev Foundation financed a number of important projects in Vatican, including restoration of the catacombs dedicated to Saints Marcellinus and Peter.
The idea of reconciliation of Armenians, Turks and Azeris is very important for Pope Francis and he will by all means have his say on the peace in Nagorno-Karabakh.
