Azerbaijani MP: Attempts to perpetuate so-called OSCE Minsk Group aim to create a conflict
Vienna, February 21, AZERTAC
“As the country in relation to which the Helsinki Principles were violated, we were one of the first countries that felt deeply let down by the OSCE’s failure to uphold its own principles. We need a comprehensive review of what went wrong—both within the OSCE and in its parliamentary dimension,” said Gaya Mammadov, Head of the Delegation of the Milli Majlis to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, at the Winter Meeting of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly in Vienna.
“We must put an end to double standards and the selective application of international law. Misusing human rights for political purposes is unacceptable. This damages human rights more than individual cases of violation. For example, the total disregard for the right to return of ethnically cleansed Azerbaijanis is appalling hypocrisy,” he pointed out.
Gaya Mammadov emphasized, “We must ensure respect for the universal principle of the consent of parties in peace efforts. Attempts to impose mediation violate international law, including specific UNGA resolution. For example, attempts to perpetuate the so-called OSCE Minsk Group aim to create a conflict and do not serve peace. Whatever has been achieved between Azerbaijan and Armenia regarding normalization was possible through a bilateral track. Azerbaijan remains committed to addressing outstanding issues bilaterally in good faith. Armenia must show reciprocal political will and remove all obstacles to peace.”
“The international community should not leave states affected by wars of aggression to deal with their aftermath alone. For example, Armenia caused us 150 billion USD in damages by destroying nearly 1,000 settlements and contaminating 13% of our territory with 3 million landmines and unexploded ordnances. Yet Armenia – the perpetrator - receives funding, which it misuses for rearmament, while we are left unsupported.”
“Finally, the OSCE must focus more on cooperation to build trust. Connectivity is a key area where it can play an active role. Azerbaijan, currently chairing the CICA and an active OSCE participant, is ready to foster Asia-Europe synergy,” he concluded.
