Belgium fully shares the view of the European Union (EU) that it is Azerbaijan's obligation to ensure the safety and free movement of Karabakh residents through the Lachin corridor. Hadja Lahbib, Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Affairs, Foreign Trade and the Federal Cultural Institutions of Belgium, stated this at the joint press briefing with Armenian foreign minister Ararat Mirzoyan on Tuesday in Yerevan.

According to her, Belgium and the EU will continue to act to this end during their diplomatic contacts.

"I am here to express my support for the settlement of the conflict, which has not been resolved for more than 100 years and has caused many casualties," she added.

Also, Lahbib expressed Belgium's serious concern regarding the current situation in Nagorno-Karabakh.

"I clearly state that the only way out of this historical conflict is the way of negotiations and compromises, even if it is difficult to achieve it. The agreements reached during the meetings organized by the head of the European Council, Charles Michel, are progress. The leaders of the two countries reaffirmed the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the countries. The words by the prime minister of Armenia regarding the recognition of the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan are aimed at peace.

"The rights and security of the Armenian population must be respected; I will remind my Azerbaijani colleague about this.

"Belgium is worried about the humanitarian situation [in Nagorno-Karabakh] and its deterioration. Restricting movement through the Lachin corridor causes serious consequences, the risk of increased hunger and morbidity; this was confirmed also today during the meeting with ICRC representatives. The lives of Karabakh residents are in danger; this is unacceptable.

"We must not forget the Armenian Genocide, this tragic chapter of our history. We have to do everything so that history doesn't repeat itself," emphasized the Belgian FM.