At a press conference hold in Yerevan Matthew Bryza, OSCE Minsk Group Co-chairman commented on Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev’s interview to “Rossia” TV channel; “Aliyev’s interview includes both – positive and negative elements for Armenia,” NEWS.am informs.

Bryza neither criticized nor defended Aliyev, emphasizing that he had asked the President to focus on peaceful settlement of the conflict and Aliyev did so. According to Bryza “statements attempt to prepare the Azerbaijani people to the peaceful settlement of the conflict, as part of it still believes that the coercive solution is an option too.” Whereas Yuri Merzlyakov, his Russian counterpart mentioned: “It would be quite naïve to think that the President of Azerbaijan is dreaming of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) independence. Karabakh status will not be resolved today or tomorrow. Regarding the negotiations both countries have different expectations. And nothing can make Armenians (both in Karabakh and Armenia) agree with the concept that Karabakh will remain a part of Azerbaijan.”

Merzlyakov considers that the process will be long-term and eventually will bring to free expression of will by Karabakh people. In addition, he believes that Karabakh party should participate in the drafting of the final resolution on conflict settlement, as half of provisions will concern their future on the territory of Karabakh."

Bernard Fassier, OSCE MG Co-chairman emphasized, that “public statements not always reflect the real negotiation process.” On the whole, co-chairmen outlined, that Aliyev’s rhetoric changed and he already speaks of the conflict peaceful settlement. Following his speech, security for Nagorno-Karabakh people should live in peace. Thus, co-chairmen hope to attain signing a peace treaty. Besides, it was also mentioned that the Armenian party is willing to recall its sharpshooters, however Baku has not approved this proposal yet.