The Minsk Group of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) will cease to exist as of December 1. This was announced by the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Finland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Elina Valtonen, during a joint press conference with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan on Tuesday in Yerevan.

Expressing full support for the process of normalizing relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan and emphasizing the respective steps taken in Washington on August 8, Valtonen highlighted Armenia’s continued commitment to peace — despite the challenges.

The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office recalled that, in accordance with a mutual decision by Armenia and Azerbaijan, the closure process of the OSCE Minsk Group is underway and will be completed by December 1. At the same time, the OSCE is ready to continue its cooperation with Armenia in several domains. A significant peace process is ongoing, and it is necessary to continue taking promising steps, Valtonen said, and adding that the OSCE stands ready to assist this process.

She noted that during her visit, she was pleased to see how the authorities demonstrate an open approach to working with civil society, which is the foundation of democracy, for people to be able to make decisions and choices. Also, Valtonen expressed hope to deepen cooperation at all levels, particularly in economy, peace, and prosperity.

And in response to a question regarding the Minsk Group’s closure no later than December 1, Elina Valtonen stated that the OSCE is ready to contribute to peace and that future cooperation will focus on economic, environmental, and climate issues.