POLITICS
TEAS concerns on EU Council`s double standards towards South Caucasus conflict resolution
London, March 3 (AZERTAC). On 27 February 2012, the Council of the European Union adopted 25 conclusions that represent an updated framework for the future EU relationship with the three countries in the South Caucasus region.
The European Azerbaijan Society (TEAS) expressed its position with regard to the Council of the EU's conclusion. TEAS welcomes the EU's acknowledgement of the significant progress made by Azerbaijan with regard to the framework of the Eastern Partnership, and the intensified cooperation and importance on energy issues. The EU also reiterates its ambition to support the peaceful settlement of conflicts in the region, yet unfortunately chooses to underline the principle of territorial integrity only with regard to Georgia. At no point is Armenia reminded of its obligation to abide by four unimplemented UN Security Council resolutions (822, 853, 874, 884) instructing Armenian forces to leave all the occupied territories of Azerbaijan.
While TEAS welcomes the Council's attention to the "principles of international law", to fully respect the principles of "sovereignty and territorial integrity" within "internationally recognised borders", the Council must be equitable in its support for the territorial integrity of both Georgia and Azerbaijan. These principles have to apply to the whole region of the South Caucasus, and not only to one particular country. This is the only way to create and entrench sustainable stabilisation and conflict resolution.
Furthermore, while the Council is acting appropriately in reiterating its commitment to helping to improve the situation of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Georgia (around 128,000, according to Amnesty International), around 875,000 Azerbaijani IDPs and refugees remain displaced as a result of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Both international law and simple moral imperative dictate that they must also be allowed to return to their homes. TEAS calls upon the Council to reflect this in future conclusions.
TEAS is also concerned at the EU's stated intention to pursue a policy of "unconditional access for representatives of the EU to Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding regions" (point 25). Any visit to Nagorno-Karabakh and the occupied adjacent Azerbaijani territories should be made via Azerbaijan across the line of contact. EU engagement in the peace process is to be welcomed, but normal protocols must be observed and entry to the occupied territories must be achieved through appropriate channels.