YEREVAN.- Both Armenia and Azerbaijan are victims of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, said newly appointed EU special representative for South Caucasus Philippe Lefort.

During a joint press conference with Armenian FM Edward Nalbandian held in Yerevan, the official said that EU wishes to assist mediatory efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group.

“EU has mechanisms and experience on monitoring and support of peace processes and expresses wish to provide assistance to Armenia and Azerbaijan as we consider that both states are victims of the conflict,” he said.

Lefort said he first visited Armenia back in 1988 after a devastating earthquake.

“I got familiar with the history of Soviet Armenia, achievements and difficulties. I am pleased to accept my new mission which gives an opportunity to visit your country more often,” he said.

After long debates, the EU decided to preserve the post of special representative for South Caucasus and add a mandate of holding talks on Georgian crisis, Lefort added.

“This post is very important as the EU attaches importance to the region which has a great potential for economic and cultural development after the peace is established,” he said.