On August 16, the UN Security Council convened a meeting to discuss the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh. It was requested by Armenia on August 11. The meeting was attended by the five permanent and ten non-permanent members of the UNSC, Armenia’s Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, and the permanent representatives of Azerbaijan, Turkey, and the EU.
As of August 17, the meeting did not produce a statement or a resolution.
Below are official and unofficial transcripts of the speeches delivered during the session compiled by staff writer Hovhannes Nazaretyan.
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) (official transcript)
Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations and Advocacy, UN OCHA:
“The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is not currently in a position to independently verify information regarding the movement of people or goods through routes that include the Lachin corridor, or on the well-being of civilians in the areas where Russian peacekeepers have been deployed.
“We are aware, however, of ongoing reports on these issues including around shortages of food and medicines, and disruption to energy supplies that are required to maintain critical infrastructure and services such as health and water facilities.
“We are also aware of reports that some essential health care interventions may have had to be suspended, including surgeries.
“OCHA is in regular contact with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which remains the only international humanitarian body that has access to the area.
“As the ICRC reported in their 25 July statement, they have been unable to transport humanitarian assistance through the Lachin corridor to the civilian population in the area, or through any other route, including Aghdam, for several weeks.
“Although medical evacuations continue, the ICRC has not been able to bring medical items into the area since 7 July, and their food deliveries stopped on 14 June. ICRC has highlighted concerning shortages of essential food items and life-saving medical supplies.
“International Humanitarian Law is very clear: parties must allow and facilitate the rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief for all civilians in need. They must ensure that humanitarian relief personnel have the freedom of movement required for their functions.
“What matters is that passage is as rapid as possible in the circumstances. It is therefore critical that the ICRC’s delivery of humanitarian relief be allowed to resume through any available routes.
“The ICRC is doing everything it can, but as a single organization it can only cover the most urgent needs. Other impartial humanitarian relief must also be allowed to reach civilians who need it, and a sustainable solution for safe and regular transit of people and goods must be found.
“Here I would reference the Secretary-General’s statement on 2 August, in which he expressed particular concern about reports of the deteriorating humanitarian situation on the ground and called for urgent steps to facilitate access.
“It is incumbent on the parties not to impede or politicize any principled humanitarian effort. Responding to humanitarian needs is not an act of legitimization or recognition; it does not take sides and it does not yield to political influence.
“OCHA will continue to engage with the parties on humanitarian access to meet the essential needs of civilians in the area.
“The UN Country Teams in both Armenia and Azerbaijan also maintain open channels with the authorities in those countries and stand fully ready to do everything they can to ensure a response to humanitarian needs.”
Armenia (official transcript)
Foreign Affairs Minister Ararat Mirzoyan:
“I would like to thank the Security Council for convening this urgent meeting to discuss the humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh stemming from the 8-months long blockade of the Lachin corridor – the road of life connecting Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia and the outer world.
“Today I’m here to seek the support of this august body in maintaining the prospect of reaching just and comprehensive peace and stability in our region, which is seriously undermined by Azerbaijan with the humanitarian calamity on the ground in Nagorno-Karabakh.
“During the last two years, Armenia, with the help of the international community, spared no efforts to establish peace and stability in our region. And I believe, today we still have the opportunity to reach this aim. But the current humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh has the full potential to deteriorate the prospects for peace in the whole region of South Caucasus and even beyond.
“Today, I would like to elaborate, suggesting you to judge not based on justifications that you might consider being true or false, but on values and facts.
“The Universal Declaration of Human Rights starts with recognition of the inherent dignity and the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family as the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world. Irrespective of their residence, all human beings are entitled to human rights and dignity, they should be treated with highest respect and care, even at time of war. Unfortunately, the people of Nagorno-Karabakh are deprived of such treatment, finding themselves in a condition of a total siege.
“Now, let me present the events, facts and figures which show the current realities in blockaded Nagorno-Karabakh.
“So, November 9, 2020 – Trilateral statement signed by the leaders of Armenia, Russia and Azerbaijan, according to Paragraph 6 of which ‘The Lachin Corridor (5 km wide), which will provide a connection between Nagorno-Karabakh and Armenia…, shall remain under the control of the Russian Federation peacekeeping forces.’
“December 12, 2022 – Azerbaijan blocked the Lachin corridor under a fake pretext of environmental concerns. Since then, gradual utilization of limited domestic stocks has resulted in an acute food shortage and closures of stores. Prior to the blockade, around 90% of all consumed food was imported from Armenia, and with every passing day, the people of Nagorno-Karabakh don’t receive 400 tons of essential goods daily. Currently, there is a severe lack of food, including nutrition for kids, flour, sugar, as well as medicine, fuel etc. Moreover, due to the absence of fuel and targeting of workers by Azerbaijan almost all agricultural work has halted. As a result, approximately 10,000 hectares of land adjacent to the contact line remain uncultivated.
“December 20, 2022 – The UN Security Council discussed the issue for the first time and the vast majority of council members called Azerbaijan to lift the blockade.
“Since December 2022, periodically and March 2023 completely (in sum for around 180 days) – Azerbaijan disrupted the only supply of natural gas to Nagorno-Karabakh. Halting the gas supply has already led to a number of adverse humanitarian consequences, such as: (1) disruption of the work of hospitals, (2) disruption of the educational process at the schools and kindergartens, (3) disruption of the work of vitally important institutions and social services, (4) inability of people to heat their homes, (5) loss of the access of many households to hot water, (6) lack of fuel for vehicles, etc.
“Since January 9, 2023 (now more than 210 days) – Azerbaijan has disrupted the supply of electricity through the sole high-voltage line between Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh. Since then, relying on limited local resources of electricity, Nagorno-Karabakh had to implement rolling power outages with only a few hours of energy supply.
“February 22, 2023 The International Court of Justice indicated a provisional measure in the ongoing case concerning the Application of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (Armenia v. Azerbaijan), according to which Azerbaijan shall “take all measures to ensure unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo along the Lachin Corridor in both directions.
“April 23, 2023 – Azerbaijan, in violation of the ICJ decision and the Trilateral Statement of November 9, 2020, installed a checkpoint in the Lachin corridor.
“June 15, 2023 – Azerbaijan went further with fully blocking the Lachin corridor by banning any access to Nagorno-Karabakh, even humanitarian, including of the International Committee of Red Cross.
“July 6, 2023 – The International Court of Justice reconfirmed its provisional measure from February 22, 2023.
“July 25, 2023 – ICRC, the only international humanitarian organization that has been operating in Nagorno-Karabakh for more than 30 years, stated: “despite persistent efforts, the ICRC is not currently able to bring humanitarian assistance to the civilian population through the Lachin corridor or through any other routes.
“July 26, 2023 – The Republic of Armenia sent a humanitarian convoy, which up to now remains at the entrance of the Lachin corridor, as the Azerbaijani side denies the access.
“August 2, 2023 – The UN Secretary-General reiterated his deep concern over the challenges related to the freedom of movement along the Lachin corridor, recalling the previous statement on the need to implement the Orders of the ICJ, ‘including the Orders issued on 22 February 2023 and reaffirmed on 6 July 2023, related to measures to ensure unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo along the Lachin corridor in both directions.’ The Secretary-General further expressed particular concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation on the ground and called for ‘urgent steps to facilitate access for the delivery of humanitarian assistance to people in need.’
“August 7, 2023 – A group of the UN human rights experts: the Special Rapporteur on the right to food, the Special Rapporteur on the right to education, the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons and the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities expressed alarm over the ongoing blockade of the Lachin corridor by Azerbaijan and the dire humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh, which ‘has left the population facing acute shortages’ and ‘placed the lives of the residents – especially children, persons with disabilities, older persons, pregnant women, and the sick – at significant risk.’
“To sum up, due to the blockade, there is no economic activity in Nagorno-Karabakh. Thousands of people are left unemployed, as there is no possibility to pay the salaries. Even those people that have money are not able to buy anything, as the shelves in the stores are empty. Women, children, elderly stay in long queues in order to be able to buy some bread or fruits and vegetables. Sometimes they have to pass dozens of kilometers on foot to reach empty shops and pharmacies. The authorities of Nagorno-Karabakh had to issue ration coupons for certain food products, including rice, porridge, sugar, etc. There is a real threat of hunger.
“Here are some other figures:
120,000 – This is the number of people living in Nagorno-Karabakh, which is deprived to exercise their basic human rights.
20,000 – the number of elderly people, who are even unable to move due to the absence of public transportation.
30,000 – the number of children living in Nagorno-Karabakh, who are struggling from malnutrition and lack of food.
270 – the number of children who are not able to return and reunite with their families in Nagorno-Karabakh
2,000 – the number of pregnant women residing in Nagorno-Karabakh who don’t have even basic access to health care.
9,000 – the number of people with disabilities, who are deprived of proper medical care.
4,700 and 8,450 – the number of people with diabetes and circulatory diseases, respectively, who are running out of essential medicine.
“All these events have doubled the rate of deaths in Nagorno-Karabakh for the past 8 months. Furthermore, the absence of medicine, sanitizers and other items of hygiene create risks of epidemics.
710 – The total number of the patients and their accompanying persons evacuated by the ICRC throughout the whole period of blockade that went through a humiliating procedure of proving their health condition in order to get ‘permission’ to be evacuated.
1 – A man with a very concrete name and surname – Vagif Khachatrian, who was abducted at the checkpoint being transported by the ICRC to Armenia for heart surgery. He was abducted while being under international humanitarian protection. This is by far not the only incident when Azerbaijan intentionally obstructed the work of the ICRC.
Again, 1 – Another man with a very concrete name and surname – Karо Hovhannisyan, who passed away yesterday. And according to the autopsy report, he died because of starvation and lasting malnutrition.
2 – Three year old Leo and six year old Gita who died in Martakert, as their mom had to leave them alone to go on foot to the nearby town with a hope to find some food for them.
“During the previous months, many of you tried to address the issue of opening the Lachin corridor. However, despite all the calls, the commitments undertaken by the Trilateral statement from November 9, 2020, the legally binding orders of the ICJ the situation did not improve on the ground. Quite contrary, Azerbaijan incrementally but consistently severed the blockade to the degree of complete siege of Nagorno-Karabakh. Armenia raised its concerns on deepening the humanitarian crisis as a result of closure of the Lachin corridor in all negotiations with Azerbaijan, which were separately facilitated and mediated by the United States of America, European Union, Russia. And yet to no avail.
“Throughout this time, Azerbaijan’s engagement has been anything but not in good faith. Back to the first discussion on this issue in the Security Council, Azerbaijan denied any responsibility on the actions thereon and even claimed that it was not controlling the Lachin corridor. Throughout the past eight months, Azerbaijan brought a number of pretexts aimed at justifying its actions. First, it was so-called eco-activists with environmental concerns, then baseless allegations of transporting arms through the Lachin corridor, furthermore military provocations and so on.
“The Lachin corridor has been agreed as a link between Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh and has no alternative. The Lachin corridor should be opened, and when it comes to other possible communications, this should be addressed within an international mechanism of Baku-Stepanakert dialogue.
“So, today I am here to seek your support to address issues of very humanitarian nature and we expect from this Council:
- to condemn the use of starvation of civilians as a method of warfare, prohibited by international law;
- to condemn the unlawful denial of humanitarian access and depriving the civilian population in Nagorno-Karabakh of objects indispensable to their survival, including willfully impeding relief supply and access for responses to conflict‑induced food insecurity;
- to demand full compliance with obligations under the international humanitarian law, including those related to the protection of civilians, in particular women and children, and critical civilian infrastructure;
- to call for the immediate restoration of freedom and security of movement of persons, vehicles and cargo, in line with the previously reached agreements, through the Lachin corridor;
- to ensure full cooperation of the parties in good faith with the International Committee of the Red Cross and safe and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian assistance;
- to dispatch an independent inter-agency needs assessment mission in Nagorno-Karabakh and provide humanitarian assistance to the affected population.
“These humanitarian issues clearly need to be resolved with the international community’s strong intervention before the negative consequences result in ethnic cleansing of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh. According to the elected representatives of Nagorno-Karabakh, ‘This is a deliberately engineered crime, driven by evident genocidal intent. The Azerbaijani authorities purposefully instigated the blockade of the Lachin corridor, with the knowledge that it would subject the entire population of Nagorno-Karabakh to a gradual demise, yet chose to persist with this course of action.’
“At the same time, the report of International Criminal Court former prosecutor Luis Moreno Ocampo reflects that it is already a genocide that is happening in Nagorno-Karabakh. According to Mr. Ocampo, “The blockade of the Lachin corridor by the Azerbaijani security forces impeding access to any food, medical supplies, and other essentials should be considered a Genocide under Article II, (c) of the Genocide Convention: ‘Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction. Starvation is the invisible Genocide weapon. Without immediate dramatic change, this group of Armenians will be destroyed in a few weeks.’
“Distinguished Council, the prevention of such a catastrophe is a core duty of the United Nations and this Council. I do believe that this distinguished body, despite of geopolitical differences, has capacity to act as genocide prevention body and not as genocide commemoration, when it might be too late.
“In conclusion, I would like to come back to the very beginning of my intervention. One of the most important principles of the United Nations is leaving no one behind and Edwin 4 years old, Anastasia 6 years old, Maria 7 years old, David 5 years old, Tatev 5 years old, Samvel 8 years old and many others still have a hope that they will not be left behind.”
Azerbaijan (official transcript)
Permanent Representative Yashar Aliyev:
“Given the statement we have just heard, I shall start by categorically rejecting all the unfounded and groundless allegations on ‘blockade’ or ‘humanitarian crises’ propagated by Armenia against my country.
“What Armenia tries to present as a humanitarian matter, is indeed the provocative and irresponsible political campaign to undermine the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan.
“It is Armenia that for almost 30 years had blatantly disregarded the relevant four resolutions of 1993 and series of Presidential Statements of the Security Council that unequivocally demanded full, immediate and unconditional withdrawal of occupying forces from the territory of Azerbaijan.
“Against this backdrop, Armenia’s actions are nothing but the embodiment of designed political hypocrisy and its appeal to the Security Council is a part of the campaign that it has been pursuing over the months to manipulate and mislead the international community.
“Had Armenia been sincere in its quest to help it would have happened immediately. It was indeed within practical reach very recently, days ago, as a result of active involvement of international actors, including some members of the SC. This did not materialize only due to the refusal by Armenia itself.
“Following the series of intensive consultations and shuttle diplomacy efforts, agreements were finally reached with respect to the delivery of humanitarian cargo to the Garabagh region through various routes, as well as the organization of a meeting between a Special Representative of the Central Authorities and representatives of local Armenian residents.
“On the first case, concrete blocks and all other physical barriers installed by the Armenian side on Aghdam-Khankendi road should have been removed to allow the delivery of humanitarian cargo by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to the local residents. This should have been followed by upscaling the usage of the Lachin road by ICRC within 24 hours. All the parties involved, including the Russian peacekeeping contingent and the ICRC, were prepared to commence implementation of this deal practically within one hour. Unfortunately, the distinguished representative of OCHA did not mention that fact.
“On the second case, the meeting between representatives of the central authorities and of local Armenian residents was agreed to take place in the nearby city of Yevlakh.
“Regrettably, on August 5, Armenia, through its illegally installed regime, backstepped from both agreements at a very last moment by introducing politically motivated and illegitimate preconditions and various pretexts.
“There should be no doubt that notwithstanding the intensive engagement by Azerbaijan with the Russian Federation, the United States, the European Union and ICRC for finding ways out of the situation, Armenia has been deliberately obstructing diplomatic efforts.
“There is only one explanation for that. Armenia is not willing to be a part of the solution. Instead, it artificially ignites tension in the region with a view to continuing manipulation and misleading at international level.
“The breach of the agreement on the delivery of humanitarian goods by the ICRC on August 5 is not the only obstruction. In fact, it is a continuation of Armenia’s politicization of the presence and activities of this humanitarian organization and its reckless attempt to exploit humanitarian matters for political purposes by challenging the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and preventing the reintegration of local ethnic Armenian residents.
“Here are the facts that speak for themselves:
- Immediately after the end of war in 2020, Azerbaijan offered its logistics and infrastructure to the ICRC for the delivery of the goods to the Garabagh region. In 2021, goods were transported to Barda city by the ICRC to be delivered to the area. The Armenian side rejected it and prevented the ICRC from delivering humanitarian assistance.
- Right after the start of protests by eco-activists on the section of the Lachin-Khankendi route, Azerbaijan requested the ICRC to present the list of goods needed by the local residents and expressed its readiness to provide all logistical and infrastructural support for their delivery. ICRC came back with the response that the Armenian side did not want any supplies through Azerbaijan.
- Armenia resorted to the unprecedented action, abusing ICRC for smuggling dual-use technologies, such as microchips to the Garabagh region. ICRC had to acknowledge this fact, which is a serious blow to the humanitarian mandate and reputation of the Committee.
- Armenia rejected to accept ICRC’s Baku-based international medical personnel to be deployed to Khankendi. It was the proposal by the ICRC to facilitate medical evacuations and help deal with medical issues on the ground and supported by Azerbaijan.
“Armenia’s abuse of ICRC for its political purposes also makes it crystal clear that the calls for increased international presence, including UN-affiliated organizations, have nothing to do with the humanitarian concerns, instead, the aim is getting more tools for manipulation.
“The Garabagh region is an internationally recognized territory of Azerbaijan and ethnic Armenians living there are considered the residents of Azerbaijan. The Government of Azerbaijan is strongly committed to guarantee and secure the access of these residents to the necessary goods and establish appropriate living conditions for them. These objectives are fully in line with international law and international humanitarian law principles, underscoring Azerbaijan’s unwavering dedication to upholding these standards.
“The so-called ‘Lachin Corridor’ is a road within the sovereign territory of Azerbaijan, without any extraterritorial status, is primarily intended for the movement of citizens, vehicles and goods under the Trilateral Statement of November 10, 2020. Azerbaijan, in adherence to its commitments under the Trilateral Statement, has allowed movement along this road. This remains intact after the establishment by Azerbaijan of the checkpoint on its border with Armenia.
“The border checkpoint was established in exercise of Azerbaijan’s inherent right to safeguard its sovereignty and security, to prevent the consistent and blatant abuse by Armenia of this route for illegal military and other activities, such as rotation of its some 10,000 military personnel, illegally stationed in the territory of Azerbaijan, transfer of weaponry, ammunition, landmines, foreign nationals and terrorists, as well as unlawful extraction and transfer of natural resources from this territory.
“Is that humanitarian assistance?!
“The unanimous decision by the International Court of Justice on July 6, 2023, to reject Armenia’s request for an interim measure on the removal of the checkpoint, definitively dismissed Armenia’s allegations that the Lachin checkpoint is illegal.
“The establishment of the border checkpoint has not impeded the civilian movement along the Lachin road. There has been, in fact, a notable increase in such movement until June 15, 2023. On that date, another unwarranted provocation by Armenia unfolded when its Armed Forces attacked Azerbaijani border guards and accompanying Russian peacekeeping forces. This attack resulted in severe injury to an Azerbaijani border guard and concurrently posed a direct threat to the ICRC staff and civilians passing through the checkpoint.
“If Armenia were genuinely concerned about the ordinary residents of the region, it would never have objected the usage of Aghdam-Khankendi road for the delivery of goods to the Garabagh region. This road is connected to one of the major transportation routes of Azerbaijan, known as ‘Silk Road’ or M2 highway, which provides a reliable connection to international markets as well.
“Compared to the 59 km long Lachin-Khankendi road passing through mountainous and serpentine terrain, this road is only 18 km between Aghdam and Khankendi. Today, within their visit to Aghdam, representatives of diplomatic corps accredited in Azerbaijan, including UN Resident Coordinator’s Office and other UN institutions, had also a chance to witness that the road was functional and ready for transportation of goods.
“Equally are ungrounded and false the allegations on genocide. At this point, Armenia’s manipulative and deceptive campaign involved the so-called ‘Opinion’ by Mr. Luis Moreno Ocampo, who presents himself as an independent expert.
“The flaws in Mr. Ocampo’s assertions have been identified in detail by a prominent international law expert, Mr. Rodney Dixon, in his preliminary report, which underlines that Ocampo’s Opinion lacks substantiation, is incomplete, and displays numerous inaccuracies. As such, there is no foundation for claiming that a genocide is currently being perpetrated. Specifically, Mr. Dixon finds that the Ocampo’s opinion patently selective in the ‘facts’, in particular, given his failure to mention Armenia’s rejection of Azerbaijan’s proposals of alternative routes to supply local Armenian residents.
“Such manipulations under humanitarian pretexts are not isolated from the increased illegal and provocative military activities. Over past weeks, the Armenian armed forces illegally remaining in the territory of Azerbaijan in a blatant violation of international law, as well as Armenia’s commitment under paragraph 4 of the Trilateral Statement of the leaders of Azerbaijan, the Russian Federation and Armenia of 10 November, have intensified the military-engineering works and other military build-up.
“The use of radio-electronic warfare equipment illegally deployed in the sovereign territory of Azerbaijan is of particular concern. Not only civilian aircrafts of the Azerbaijani Airlines, but also those of foreign countries have been subjected to radio-electronic interference over past weeks, posing serious risk for their safety.
“Today, an attempt by a reconnaissance group of the Armenian armed forces to infiltrate the territory of Azerbaijan to carry out diversion operations in the Kalbajar District was prevented and a member of the group, Voskanyan Gagik Ashotovich, DOB 1983, armed with machine-gun and ammunition, was detained.
“Armenia must refrain from provocations, cease its actions undermining the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, abstain from meddling in our internal affairs, and genuinely engage in post-conflict normalization negotiations. It is of vital importance that the historic opportunity for durable peace in the region is not missed.
“Verbal statements by the leadership of Armenia on the recognition of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, including the Garabagh region, created a ground for cautious optimism that the peace is indeed within reach. Now, Armenia has to transform this statement into the real deeds and refrain from questioning the sovereignty of Azerbaijan, including under the pretext of ‘humanitarian needs’ of the local Armenian residents of the Garabagh region of Azerbaijan.
“Over the past few months, concerted efforts to intensify the normalization process with active engagement of international partners have yielded promising results. These diplomatic dialogues have played a crucial role in bridging differences and achieving tangible progress on several articles of the future bilateral agreement, aimed at establishing a lasting peace and inter-state relations.
“Azerbaijan pursues the policy of reintegration of ethnic Armenian residents of the Garabagh region as equal citizens guaranteeing all the rights and freedoms envisaged in the Constitution of Azerbaijan and all relevant international human rights mechanisms that Azerbaijan is signatory to. Our adherence to both these tracks is firm as we are firm to protect our sovereignty and territorial integrity by all legitimate means enshrined in the UN Charter and international law.
“We are confident that international community, and first of all, the SC will support this approach based on equal and reciprocal respect for legitimate interests of both countries through mutual recognition of and respect for each other’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and inviolability of borders.
“In conclusion, I have also something to show. Social media outlets are full of numerous video clips and photos of local Armenian residents in Khankendi celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, weddings and all the good occasions. We wish them well. These video/photo facts convincingly refute the allegations about starvation, famine and humanitarian crisis there.”
European Union (EU) (official transcript)
Silvio Gonzato, Acting Chargé d’Affaires, Delegation of the European Union to the UN:
“The European Union is following with great concern the serious humanitarian situation affecting the local population in the former Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Oblast. Movement through the Lachin corridor has been obstructed for more than 8 months, despite Orders by the International Court of Justice to reopen it. Since 15 June, there has been a blockage of the Lachin corridor, with the exception of occasional medical evacuations.
“Medical supplies and essential goods are reportedly in critically short supply or have already run out, with dire consequences for the local population.
“The EU deplores that ICRC activities in the region have been heavily impacted and calls for their full resumption, including medical evacuations and humanitarian supplies. Humanitarian access must not be politicized by any actors.
“Movement through the Lachin corridor must be reopened immediately. Based on the November 2020 trilateral statement and the February 2023 ICJ order, the Azerbaijani authorities bear the responsibility to guarantee safety and freedom of movement along the Lachin corridor and to ensure the crisis does not escalate further. We have taken note of the expressed readiness of the Azerbaijani authorities to also supply goods via the city of Aghdam. This should however not be seen as an alternative to the reopening of the Lachin corridor.
“The population on the ground needs reassurances, first and foremost regarding their rights and security. The EU reiterates its call for direct dialogue between Baku and Karabakh Armenians. This dialogue should build much-needed confidence for all those involved.
“The EU has also been following the growing tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the past months along their international border, with shooting incidents reported almost on a daily basis.
“The EU Monitoring Mission in Armenia (EUMA) is conducting patrols along the Armenian side of the international border with Azerbaijan to observe and report on the situation. The objective of the mission is to contribute to conflict resolution and build confidence between Armenia and Azerbaijan. We call on all sides to avoid further incidents and return to dialogue.
“The European Union, and in particular President of the European Council Charles Michel, has been heavily engaged in supporting the normalization process between Armenia and Azerbaijan since the end of 2021.
“At the last trilateral meeting hosted by President Charles Michel with President Aliyev of Azerbaijan and Prime Minister Pashinyan of Armenia on 15 July 2023, the leaders of the two countries reiterated their strong commitment to the peace process. They notably reconfirmed their full respect for the other country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, and their unequivocal commitment to the 1991 Almaty Declaration as a political framework for the delimitation.
“As a matter of priority, violence, harsh rhetoric and the spreading of disinformation should stop in order to provide a conducive environment for peace and normalization talks. A return to dialogue in good faith remains as urgent as ever. This requires the genuine commitment of all sides to negotiated outcomes and a future built on common interests and mutual trust. Unfortunately, the current deteriorating humanitarian situation of the Karabakh Armenians is harming the peace process. Humanitarian issues need to be resolved and concrete steps should urgently be taken to build trust.
“The European Union remains fully committed to facilitating dialogue between both sides in order to ensure long lasting peace for the benefit of all people of the region.”
Russia (official transcript)
Chargé d’Affaires Dmitry Polyanskiy:
“We are concerned over the continuing blockade of the Lachin corridor. Now as never before we need actual steps to be made on the ground in order to ensure prompt de-escalation of the situation around Nagorno-Karabakh, including the unblocking of the Lachin corridor and use of other humanitarian routes.
“With support from both sides, Russia is taking maximum efforts to ensure the soonest possible resolution of the crisis and promote overall normalization of relations of our two friendly nations, Armenia and Azerbaijan. We do our best to prevent a humanitarian disaster in the region. For this purpose, we engage at all levels of political and diplomatic channels, and also take action on the ground via the Russian peacekeeping contingent.
“We maintain energetic contacts with all stakeholders with an aim of immediate recovery of sustained deliveries to Nagorno-Karabakh of food, medications, and other basic necessity items, as well as resumption of electricity and gas supply.
“The series of statements by President of Russia, President of Azerbaijan, and Prime Minister of Armenia of 2020-2022 remains a mandatory roadmap for reconciliation of Baku and Yerevan. The potential of trilateral agreements has not been exhausted. Their key aspects are delimitation and subsequent demarcation of Armenian-Azerbaijani border with expert support from Russia, unblocking of transportation links under the auspices of the Trilateral Working Group co-chaired by Deputy Prime Ministers of Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, assistance with elaboration of an Armenian-Azerbaijani peace treaty, facilitation of parliamentary and public activists’ dialogue. There is some progress on each of these tracks. Russia intends to proceed with meaningful efforts.
“Armenian-Azerbaijani reconciliation is unthinkable unless there are clear and reliable security guarantees and observance of the rights of residents of Nagorno-Karabakh on the basis of universally recognized international principles within Azerbaijan’s legal framework. This logic follows from the repeatedly confirmed recent agreements of the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan on mutual recognition by the parties of each other’s territorial integrity in accordance with the 1991 Alma-Ata Declaration.
“At the talks of the foreign ministers of Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan that took place in Moscow on July 25, our side proposed realistic compromise-based solutions for de-escalation, which the parties have taken into consideration. I refer to the proposed parallel opening of passages through Aghdam and Lachin for civilians and non-military cargo. This will create the necessary prerequisites for an early launch of direct dialogue between the authorized representatives of official Baku and the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh.
“Mutual commitments of the parties to refrain from politicizing purely humanitarian issues stand in no smaller demand. We trust that all participants in the process will find the political will to overcome their contradictions in order to alleviate the plight of tens of thousands of Nagorno-Karabakh residents and have a sustained Baku-Stepanakert dialogue.
“We are ready to engage with all responsible stakeholders who are interested in normalization of the situation around Nagorno-Karabakh and Armenian-Azerbaijani reconciliation at large. Those who truly adhere to this scenario, which is based on the fundamental interests of the Armenian and Azerbaijani peoples, should put aside geopolitical and all sorts of domestic political considerations. We also call for a responsible approach to the use of the Security Council platform in this context. In any case, it is Baku and Yerevan who should resolve these problems. No externally imposed schemes and solutions will replace their dialogue. For our part, we will continue to encourage such dialogue, bringing the parties closer to an original good-neighborly solution, i.a. by employing the potential of the Russian peacekeeping contingent.”
United States (official transcript)
Permanent Representative Linda Thomas-Greenfield:
“Colleagues, the United States is concerned about the humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh. And we are deeply troubled by the closure of the Lachin Corridor, which has cut off access to essential goods and exacerbated the humanitarian situation. Access to food, medicine, baby formula, and energy should never be held hostage.
“We urge the government of Azerbaijan to restore free movement through the corridor – so commercial, humanitarian, and private vehicles can reach the population of Nagorno-Karabakh.
“We also note the possibility of compromise on additional routes for humanitarian supplies. And understand that, since last December, the ICRC has facilitated medical transfers for more than 700 people in need of medical care thanks to a critical lifeline for medically vulnerable individuals through the Lachin Corridor. Neutral, impartial, humane, and independent humanitarian access and assistance – including medical transfers – must not be hindered. Full stop.
“Colleagues, I want to stress the need for the parties to continue talks aimed at a lasting, peaceful resolution to the conflict – and the normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. These peace discussions require all parties to exercise creativity, flexibility, and compromise. And let me be clear: peace in the region must include protections for the rights and security of individuals in Nagorno-Karabakh.
“The United States urges restraint and the immediate cessation of any activities that undermine the peace process. And we call on all sides to fully meet their obligations under international humanitarian law. The international community must continue to engage diplomatically to facilitate dialogue and a durable, dignified peace.
“Negotiations are vital to a lasting peace. And we support any format that allows Armenia and Azerbaijan to continue dialogue toward a peaceful resolution to the conflict. We encourage all parties to engage in direct talks, including between officials in Baku and representatives of the population of Nagorno-Karabakh.
“The United States is committed to promoting a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous future for the South Caucasus region. And we will continue to engage bilaterally and multilaterally with all partners to help build this brighter future.”
France (official transcript in French)
Deputy Permanent Representative Nathalie Broadhurst:
“I would like to emphasize three points.
“Firstly, the restrictions and then the total blockage, for more than eight months, of traffic on the corridor linking Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh, are today causing a humanitarian crisis.
“The persistent blockade of the Lachin Corridor by Azerbaijan continues to isolate the population of Nagorno-Karabakh from the rest of the world without any legitimate reason being able to justify such a situation, which goes against the principles of international humanitarian law. This situation, combined with interruptions in the supply of gas and electricity, the drying up of water resources, the difficulties encountered by the population in gaining access to seeds, the shortage of fuel which hampers agricultural work, is degenerating today in a humanitarian crisis: the risk of famine and widespread shortages, including of medicines, is imminent.
“France deplores the blocking of the humanitarian aid convoy dispatched last July by the Armenian authorities to try to remedy this dramatic situation. Restrictions and obstacles to the activities of the ICRC and humanitarian actors, in violation of international law, are not acceptable.
“Faced with the seriousness of the humanitarian situation, France calls for the restoration, without conditions and without delay, of the free movement of goods, people and goods, along the Lachin corridor, in both directions, and of a continuous supply of the population in gas and electricity.
“Since our last public meeting, the International Court of Justice issued an order on February 22, 2023. This order indicated provisional measures, which are binding, and which require Azerbaijan, in accordance with its obligations under of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, to ‘take all measures at its disposal to ensure the unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and goods along the Lachin corridor in both sense.’ In its Order of July 6, 2023, noting ‘the precariousness of the situation between the Parties”, the Court confirmed “the need for effective implementation of the measure indicated in its Order of February 22, 2023.’
“Just as the Secretary-General of the United Nations did on August 2, France once again calls on Azerbaijan to comply with its international obligations, and in particular to implement the interim measures indicated by the International Court of Justice.
“Faced with the gravity of the situation, France welcomes the action of the ICRC in the field, to which it will strengthen its support. France calls for immediate, free and unhindered access for humanitarian organizations and United Nations agencies to the populations concerned and for the reopening of the Lachin corridor.
“France also remains fully committed to promoting a lasting and just peace in the region.
“In this regard, we call for a resumption of negotiations, towards the settlement of all outstanding issues, including that of rights and guarantees for the population of Nagorno-Karabakh. This settlement can only be reached through dialogue, excluding any use of force or any threat of use of force.
“Alongside the European Union, France will continue to contribute to efforts to promote dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan. It gives its full support and participates in the mediation efforts led by the European Union to promote a standardization process.
“We will support the search for progress on all the subjects under negotiation, in particular the draft peace treaty, the delimitation of the border, the humanitarian questions, and the opening of the lines of communication. France is at the disposal of the parties to contribute to these objectives, in conjunction with all the partners and stakeholders.”
UK (official transcript)
Deputy Permanent Representative James Kariuki:
“The United Kingdom remains deeply concerned at the ongoing disruptions to the Lachin corridor, which threatens the supply of life-saving medication, health care, and other essential goods and services – resulting in humanitarian consequences for the local population.
“It is therefore crucial that the ICJ order of February 2023 is respected to ensure unimpeded movement along the Lachin corridor in both directions.
“We strongly urge parties to allow the ICRC access along all available routes – including via the Lachin corridor – for the organization to be able to undertake its vital work. All parties must refrain from the politicization of humanitarian aid in order to meet the needs of the civilian population.
“We warmly welcome the ongoing, internationally-mediated negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan toward a historic peace agreement, hosted most recently by European Council President Michel last month. We also welcome the efforts of the United States in this regard, with high-level engagement from Secretary Blinken.
“We urge all parties to redouble their efforts in these talks towards a lasting settlement. It is only diplomacy, in the spirit of the UN Charter, that will bring both sides closer to peace.”
China
Deputy Permanent Representative Geng Shuang:
“China takes note of the recent letters from Armenia and Azerbaijan to the President of the Security Council and the Secretary General of the UN on the situation in the Lachin corridor. We also take note of the recent statement by the spokesperson for the Secretary General. China has been closely following the developments in the situation and consistently advocates that disputes concerning the Lachin corridor should be settled through dialogue and consultation.
“We hope and believe that the parties concerned will properly settle all issues, including the humanitarian situation, through diplomatic efforts. Armenia and Azerbaijan are neighbors. It is in the fundamental interest of both countries to achieve common security and common development through cooperation.
“In recent years, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia have successively issued four joint statements, making arrangements, respectively, for the cessation of hostilities, economic and transport cooperation, and border issues, among others. Recently, Armenia and Azerbaijan have carried out a series of engagements and dialogue through mediation of relevant parties, demonstrating the political will and concrete actions of both countries to resolve issues in dispute peacefully through diplomatic means.
“We encourage Armenia and Azerbaijan to continue to meet each other halfway on the basis of the four joint statements and the efforts made in the previous period and under the mediation of relevant parties, including Russia, and to properly settle the disputes between them in accordance with universally recognized international law and the norms governing international relations. China supports any diplomatic efforts conducive to realizing this goal and will play a constructive role in this regard.”
Albania (official transcript)
Permanent Representative Ferit Hoxha:
“Since the last SC meeting on this issue in December of the last year, there have been new developments, some of them positive and very encouraging.
“We welcome and applaud the intensification of the Armenia-Azerbaijan normalization process. Following the negotiations on a peace treaty that were held in the United States in early May, leaders’ meetings have taken place in Brussels and other European capitals.
“The leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan have reaffirmed publicly their firm commitment to the 1991 Almaty Declaration and the territorial integrity of the two countries.
“Given the heavy past, this firm commitment by both countries to respecting each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity as neighbors, and their readiness to deal with and solve the disputes by peaceful means, based on the respect of the UN Charter and International Law, is of paramount importance.
“We welcome the commitment of both parties to a longer-term negotiation plan for a comprehensive peace agreement. As stated by the President of the European Union, Charles Michel, only one month ago, current efforts represent ‘one of the most comprehensive and vigorous stages of negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan.’
“In this respect, we welcome plans for the construction of a railway connection, which should take place without delay. We want to believe that parties will be swift to take the offer and the readiness of the EU to contribute financially for this project.
“Establishing the rail link could prove a strong confidence-building measure and symbolize cooperation to advance shared interests, laying the groundwork for further diplomatic and economic collaboration between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
“In our view, this is what both countries need, what their populations deserve and what the region must have.
“We are well aware that the road is still uphill and bumpy, and a number of problems still persist.
“As we just heard from Ms. Wosornu, parties continue to express serious concerns, tensions have continued near the Armenian-Azerbaijani border and there are important pending issues that need particular and continued attention.
“We have been following the recent developments in the Lachin road. We note that on this issue, the positions of the two countries differ sharply. From January to August of this year, there have been close to 60 letters addressed by both parties to the Security Council.
“While each side develops its own narrative on the situation, one aspect strikes more than anything: a profound lack of trust between the parties on the best ways to dealing with the situations of the Azerbaijani citizens of Armenian descent living in the country, and on the urgent need for the parties to get together and work seriously to resolve all related issues.
“We reiterate our principled position that humanitarian needs must not be politicized; they must not be used to resonate other grievances.
“Humanitarian needs must only be met.
“We are absolutely confident that there is enough room to discuss on one hand, openly and seriously, all issues related to the expressed humanitarian concerns, the freedom of the movement through the Latchin road, including by exploring other possibilities, and on the other hand, any legitimate security concerns.
“When humanitarian issues are at stake, everything must be done, every option must be explored including, in this respect, the use of Aghdam-Khankendi road – as already proposed – for the same and only purpose, the delivery of goods to the region to respond quickly and responsibly.
“We strongly encourage efforts from both sides to ensure the needs of the population are met.
“In a broader prospect, we think that parties should work with a sense of urgency to deal with all other issues, to delimitate their border, demine and demilitarize it, through good faith cooperation, in order to provide the necessary sense of security, avoid accidents and incidents which, given the volatility of the situation, could lead quickly to heightened tensions and clashes. Parties should avoid unnecessary speculation and heightened rhetoric and above all serve the main purpose: advance towards building a future in cooperation and friendship.
“We know that the legacy of 30 years of a painful frozen conflict will not be overcome overnight. But the new realities and the determination shown recently by the parties must be fully exploited.
“In the most friendly and sincere way, we urge both parties that instead of competing on the communication front in a non-productive blame game, they should get together and work to establish more cooperation, more contacts at various levels, make steps that will establish and increase confidence and help address all issues.
“Nothing should come across this prospect, which in our view, is the only one conducive to having a new and positive reality in the Armenia-Azerbaijani relations.
“In this respect, we also encourage direct talks between the representatives of the Armenian community in Azerbaijan and the Government.
“Let me end by reiterating the importance of pursuing the path of diplomacy as the best way to move forward and overcome the bitter legacy of a conflict that has kept apart the people of two neighboring countries, with huge consequences.
“It is high time to invest in shared benefits.”
Brazil
Permanent Representative Sérgio França Danese:
“We are concerned about reports on the deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Karabakh. Of special concern are the reports on further tightening of the roadblock last June preventing assistance to the civilian population, including vulnerable individuals and those in poor health conditions.
“Brazil reaffirms its commitment to the respect for the sovereignty and territorial Integrity of Armenia and Azerbaijan within their internationally recognized borders. Measures to reinforce border controls, however, must take into account basic principles of humanitarian law in order to prevent or limit the suffering of innocent civilians.
“We recall that the persistence of the current stalemate, regardless of its causes, threatens the well-being and the lives of thousands of people. We urge the parties to explore mechanisms to ensure an unimpeded humanitarian access to Karabakh, including the feasibility of the Aghdam-Khankendi road. We consider it essential to find an urgent solution to the crisis which may become even worse in the coming months with the approach of winter.
“Brazil understands that this conflict originates from a complex situation that extends over generations. Thousands of people lost their lives. We believe that it is necessary to stop this cycle of violence, which implies abandoning the aggressive rhetoric adopted by some of those involved, and strengthening confidence-building measures.
“Brazil, with its vibrant community of Armenian descent, encourages the preservation of dialogue channels between the parties and underscores its support for the terms of the ceasefire agreement. The trilateral declaration of November 9, 2020 offers a road map for peace building. It is essential that the parties adhere to the commitments assumed at the time and remain engaged in the pursuit of a definitive solution to the conflict. This Council should follow developments there with close attention and a committed willingness to help where possible.”
Ecuador
Permanent Representative Hernán Pérez Loose:
“Ecuador takes note of the letters from Armenia and Azerbaijan on the situation in the Lachin corridor circulated to the Security Council on August 11th and 14th of 2023, respectively. We note with concern reports of problems related to freedom of movement in the Lachin election corridor, which has a serious impact on the humanitarian situation and risks destabilizing the region. The implications of this situation for the supply of basic necessities such as food and medicines to the local population are of great concern.
“We therefore call on the parties to comply with the agreements expressed in the trilateral declaration of November 9th, 2020, based on the Russian mediated ceasefire and to urgently adopt measures to facilitate access for the deliveries for the delivery of humanitarian aid to the civilian population.
“We reiterate Ecuador’s position that in all cases parties must comply with the orders and decisions of the principal judicial organ of this organization. We therefore recall the orders of the International Court of Justice on this case, including those of February and July 2023, in relation to measures to ensure the unimpeded movement of people, vehicles and cargo along the Lachin corridor in both directions.
“We urge the parties to speed up their efforts for peace, anchored in human rights and to abstain from any actions that could exacerbate tensions and deteriorate the humanitarian and security situation for the civilian population.
“Ecuador hopes that negotiation efforts will continue in search of a sustainable solution to the conflict, which will allow tensions to be de-escalated in compliance with agreements reached in 2020 and to ensure the free and safe movement through the Lachin corridor.
“To this end, we reiterate our support for the revitalization and strengthening of peace efforts under the framework of the Minsk Group of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and in all available frameworks, initiatives and tools for peaceful settlement, including the peace efforts of the European Union.”
Gabon
Permanent Representative Michel Xavier Biang:
“We are deeply concerned by the human rights situation of the civilian population living in Nagorno-Karabakh. According to the latest reports of the ICRC, these civilians are facing shortages of food, medicine, and medical equipment, essential hygiene items, as well as basic services. This is especially urgent when it comes to vulnerable persons, including children, the sick, pregnant women and the elderly, the survival of whom depends almost exclusively on humanitarian aid.
“My country reiterates that humanitarian aid must be provided urgently without any politicization. The parties must adhere strictly to their obligations under international humanitarian law, especially the part about not hindering humanitarian access and freedom of movement of persons and goods. Access to the Nagorno-Karabakh region must be guaranteed in order to prevent further jeopardization of the lives of the civilian population there.
“It is also crucial that sick persons be able to receive treatment without disruption and that all health-related evacuations, when necessary, can be carried out under satisfactory conditions.
“My country remains convinced that the crisis between Azerbaijan and Armenia must be resolved through dialogue while complying with international law. To this end, discussions on the political environment should continue in order to prevent the risk of a new armed conflict and to arrive at a lasting, irreversible, definitive resolution of the conflict.
“We call on the parties to implement the existing agreements and to continue negotiations based on the tripartite agreement of November 10, 2020, as well as the joint declarations in order to find agreement on key issues, including signing a peace treaty and delimiting borders. In any case, it is urgent to reduce tensions along the borders and to ensure that negotiations in Brussels, which are coming, will be successful.
“This means that the parties must take a responsible approach and must not use military threats nor incendiary rhetoric, nor hate speech, aiming at bringing back the fears of history. In conclusion, I’d like to call on all parties to build on the positive progress from May and June in order to steadily progress toward peace and normalization between the two countries. My country commends all of the facilitators and encourages regional initiatives in order to promote the building of a lasting peace.”
Ghana
Political Coordinator at the Permanent Mission Felix Boateng:
“I would like to begin by thanking you for convening this meeting on the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh. We have listened carefully to the briefing provided by Miss Edem Wosornu, OCHA Director of Operations, and encouraged and enhance United Nations engagement to support the parties to find a durable solution to the long-standing conflict that constitutes that continues to rupture the Peace of the region
“Against the backdrop of fresh tensions, hate speech and dangerous rhetoric in relation to the situation, we welcome the participation in this meeting of the foreign minister of Armenia and the representative of Azerbaijan and look forward to hearing their views which we hope can help the council in its effort to address the prevailing challenges.
“We equally welcome the participation in this meeting of the representatives of Turkey and the representative from the delegation of the European Union to the United Nations.
“It is imperative that our messages today should urge the parties to meaningfully engage with all regional and multilateral processes to peacefully resolve the conflict based on the established principles that are mutually acceptable. We recall here previous efforts by regional actors, including the ceasefire declared in a trilateral statement agreed to by the leaders of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the Russian Federation on 10th November 2020 and emphasize the urgent need for the parties to recommit to its full implementation.
“As we have underlined previously, we encourage strong international mediation efforts appropriately framed and supported to help douse the flames of intense animosity, mutual distrust and discontent between the parties, and facilitate an effective political process for peace.
“We encourage the secretary General’s good offices rule, urge the re-activated engagement of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs and note the positive role of the Collective Security Treaty Organization. We further encourage the parties to fully embrace ongoing mediation efforts and talks under the auspices of the European Union Council. The outcomes of these discussions including the demarcation and delimitation of borders will help, we believe, to reduce tensions, facilitate the normalization of relations, and set the stage for negotiating a future Armenia Azerbaijan peace treaty.
“We hold that an open military confrontation and war serves no one’s interest, including that of the parties. Rather it exacerbates the suffering of civilians particularly women, children, the elderly and other vulnerable segments of the population.
“It is paramount that we work with all the parties and concerned actors to ensure unimpeded access by humanitarian actors to the population in the region as well as their access to goods and services. The Lachin Corridor and other acceptable viable routes are vital in this endeavor and serve as a critical link to ensuring the right of access to health, essential services, and goods, and to freedom of movement.
“We therefore urge the effective implementation of the orders of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), including the orders issued on 22nd February 2023 and reaffirmed on 6th July 2023 related to the measures to ensure unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles, and cargo along the Lachin Corridor in both directions.
“We reiterate that action that could potentially induce a humanitarian catastrophe and needlessly put civilians at risks undercut our shared values and violate international norms, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law.
“For the sake of international peace and security, we call on the parties to immediately deescalate the situation, guarantee the security rights and freedoms of all ethnic populations, and the right of all others who have been displaced to return. Finally, both parties must respect their obligations by refraining from actions that foster mistrust, erode confidence, and complicate efforts to find an amicable settlement to this cyclical conflict.”
Japan (official transcript)
Permanent Representative Kimihiro Ishikane:
“We took note of the letters by Armenia and Azerbaijan distributed to the Security Council. The arguments of both sides offer different explanations.
“However, safeguarding local livelihoods must be the utmost priority. The lives of the most vulnerable, including the sick and chronically ill, elderly, women, infirm and children, must not be threatened.
“We recall the Secretary-General’s concern over reports of continued challenges to the freedom of movement along the Lachin Corridor and the deteriorating humanitarian situation on the ground.
“The ICRC is currently facing difficulties to bring humanitarian assistance to the civilian population through the Lachin Corridor or any other routes. It is calling on the relevant decision makers to let it resume its essential humanitarian operations in the area. Humanitarian access by international organizations must be unimpeded. We urge all parties to grant access as soon as possible.
“In addition, the ICJ indicated provisional measures on 22 February 2023 related to ensuring unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo along the Lachin Corridor in both directions. We reiterate our consistent position that the rule of law must be upheld and that any nation must abide by international law, including the UN Charter and international humanitarian law.
“The final settlement of the conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia is crucial for peace and stability in the Caucasus region. The Security Council, which is tasked with maintaining international peace and security, should be committed to this issue.
“Dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan is important. We hope that it will allow issues related to their dispute to be resolved peacefully in accordance with international law.”
Malta
Deputy Permanent Representative Francesca Gatt:
“Malta is deeply concerned about the situation in the Nagorno-Karabakh region and the ensuing humanitarian situation aggravated by the blockade of the Lachin Corridor.
“It is deplorable that citizens in the region continue to be deprived of essential goods, such as food, medicine and fuel, which has impacted the functioning of medical and education institutions.
“Malta calls for the immediate and unconditional end to this blockade. The implications of the situation on the local population and the lack of humanitarian access to the region is serious and will only worsen as time goes by without any form of redress or remedy.
“Unimpeded humanitarian access must be given. We appeal to the Azerbaijani authorities to restore free access to the Nagorno-Karabakh region and refrain from further violations of the trilateral statement of 9th November 2020, international humanitarian law, and orders by the International Court of Justice.
“We also take note of the expressed readiness of the Azerbaijani authorities to also supply goods via the city of Aghdam. This should not be seen as an alternative to the reopening of the Lachin corridor.
“Malta calls for immediate de-escalation of the situation and highlights the importance of reconciliation between both parties in order to prevent unnecessary hardship and loss of life.
“Everyone must have easy access to basic and essential goods, especially society’s most vulnerable groups, including women, children, the elderly, and persons with disability, should be effectively protected and their well-being prioritized.
“Women and girls who are internally displaced or are in a refugee-like situation often face intersecting forms of discrimination and have limited access to education, employment, health care, and housing, and are inadequately protected from gender-based violence.
“Malta strongly believe that humanitarian access must not be politicized under any circumstance by any of the actors involved and continues to support and commence the work carried out by the ICRC in the region and by local women women organizations that have provided services to victims of domestic violence, psychosocial support, and sanitary and hygiene products.
“Malta remains fully committed towards constructive dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan to a long-lasting peace and stability in the South Caucasus. We encourage confidence building measures by both the Armenian and Azerbaijan leadership to overcome differences and guarantee the safety and security of citizens in the region.
“Armenian women in all their diversity continue to be marginalized in all stages of peace and reconstruction processes. Only inclusive dialogue and diplomacy can ensure a peaceful settlement to the situation and show an outcome that is beneficial for the people.
“In this context, Malta encourages the direct engagement between both sides and attempts to reach a quick resolution to the conflict.
“Malta affirms its support for a negotiated and comprehensive solution for the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and is supportive of the efforts by the OSCE Minsk Group in pursuing this objective. The continued engagement by the EU in facilitating the peaceful resolution of issues between both sides is strongly commended. There’s no other viable way forward but to continue working together to overcome the differences and to guarantee the safety and security of citizens in the region.
“In conclusion, Malta reiterates its call for the immediate removal of the blockade imposed in the Lachin Corridor and for restoring freedom of movement of people and goods in the Nagorno-Karabakh region both ways. We continue to fully support efforts leading towards sustainable peace, security and prosperity.”
Mozambique
Permanent Representative Pedro Comissário Afonso:
“Mozambique thanks the United States presidency for convening this important meeting. Our gratitude is extended to the OCHA director of operations and advocacy Miss Edem Wosornu for the updates she has just shared with us. They provide further insight into the difficult humanitarian situation in the Nagorno-Karabakh region.
“We have taken note of the content of the letter from the permanent mission of the Republic of Armenia dated 11 August 2023 as well as that from the permanent mission of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated 14 August 2023, both addressed to the Secretary General of the United Nations and to the president of the Security Council.
“In this regard, Mozambique wishes to express our deep concern over the reported difficulties faced in the delivery of humanitarian assistance to people in need in the Nagorno-Karabakh region. We believe it is the primary responsibility of all states under international humanitarian law to protect civilians in conflict situations by ensuring into alia the provision of essential services, including food and health care.
“We therefore urge Armenia and Azerbaijan to ensure that vulnerable populations have unimpeded access to humanitarian aid. We call on the parties involved to remain committed to the agreements reached so far, including the trilateral Declaration of 9 November 2020 made by Armenia, Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation. More importantly, we appeal to the parties to abide by the relevant decisions of the International Court of Justice on the matter.
“It is our strong belief that bilateral issues between the two countries must be resolved through diplomatic means, so as to foster mutual trust and achieve a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict in full respect of their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence.
“Mozambique attaches great importance to the role of the regional and international actors which have been actively involved in supporting and facilitating the peace process between the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan. In this regard, we encourage their continuous and active engagement in seeking that the parties return to negotiations and avoid hostilities in the Supreme interest of peace and for the benefit of good neighborliness of their two peoples and countries.
“We highly value the continuation of the good offices of the Secretary General. in the same vein we strongly encourage the peace mediation efforts of the Minsk group of the organization for security and cooperation in Europe, and the European Union for the normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan.”
Switzerland
Deputy Permanent Representative Adrian Hauri:
“Switzerland supports a peaceful settlement of the differences between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and commends the efforts made by the parties and several diplomatic players in this respect.
“We regret the renewed tension over the last few months. In this context, we are deeply concerned by the increasing deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the area following the restrictions on access through the Lachin Corridor. Women, men, and children are finding themselves in an increasingly difficult position faced with a shortage of medicines, and products essential to their survival.
“Restrictions on access have a profound impact on the most vulnerable, especially children, the sick, the elderly, people with disabilities, and pregnant women. The situation is untenable and must be resolved without delay. It is vital to restore the free passage of civilians and essential goods. We call on the parties to respect the commitments they have taken, notability in the trilateral declaration of November 2020. The International Court of Justice has requested that Azerbaijan take all measures at its disposal to ensure the unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles, and cargo along the Lachin corridor in both directions. We call for compliance with the court’s decisions.
“In addition, the parties must take urgent steps to facilitate safe, rapid, and unhindered access for humanitarian actors to civilians in need as required by international humanitarian law. We join the ICRC in calling on the parties to find a humanitarian consensus to ensure that impartial humanitarian aid reaches those who depend on it. The ICRC must be able to resume its humanitarian operations in the region without hindrance.
“We recognize the diplomatic efforts undertaken to achieve a lasting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The pursuit of constructive dialogue and the implementation of agreements on the ground based on respect for sovereignty, and territorial integrity, as well as the protection of minority rights remain fundamental to building confidence for long-term solution. We call on the parties to take de-escalation measures and intensify their measures to normalize relations and reach a peace treaty. Switzerland remains ready to promote these efforts through its good offices if both parties so wish.
“As a Council we must do everything in our power to support efforts to resolve the remaining disputes peacefully and prevent a humanitarian catastrophe from developing.”
United Arab Emirates (UAE) (official transcript)
Deputy Permanent Representative Ameirah AlHefeiti:
“I would like to begin by thanking Ms. Wosorno for their thorough briefing, and I welcome the participation of His Excellency Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, and the representatives of Armenia and Azerbaijan in this meeting.
“The United Arab Emirates is closely following the evolving situation along the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan and has taken note of the letters sent in the past week on developments in the region – both from Armenia to the President of the Security Council, and from Azerbaijan to the Secretary-General. We also take note of the Secretary-General’s statement dated 2 August and appreciate his call to facilitate the passage of humanitarian aid to those in need. Furthermore, we acknowledge the role of the United Nations in providing humanitarian assistance as stipulated in General Assembly resolutions 46/182 and 58/114.
“The UAE stresses the necessity of providing basic goods – such as food, medicine, and fuel – and ensuring that these items reach those in need, as well as necessary medical assistance and care in a timely manner. Moreover, we commend the efforts of the International Committee of the Red Cross, and we welcome the resumption of medical evacuations.
“We remain concerned about the tensions between the two sides, and once again, we call on all parties to de-escalate and exercise restraint. It is imperative to avoid unilateral measures or rhetoric that could result in dire humanitarian consequences or impede the achievement of a lasting peace.
“Therefore, we call for the two parties to continue resolving their differences peacefully through dialogue and diplomatic means, in line with International Law, international norms, and the United Nations Charter.
“In this context, the UAE encourages Armenia and Azerbaijan to continue engaging constructively and in good faith within the ongoing mediation efforts, which we hope will lay the foundation for a sustainable peace. We also welcome the ongoing talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and we look forward to seeing concrete steps in this direction.
“Now is the time for peace. And through our open lines of communication with Armenia and Azerbaijan, the UAE will continue to support all efforts that promote stability, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence between the two countries.”
Turkey
Permanent Representative Sedat Önal:
“As a country with vested interest in regional peace and stability and actively engaged in initiatives towards this objective, Turkey is concerned with the attempts of Armenia to exploit international platforms, including the UN Security Council, to express politically motivated and unsubstantiated allegations regarding the Lachin road.
“We need to address this issue in its proper context. First and foremost, the legitimate concerns of Azerbaijan have to be taken into account and its inherent sovereign rights have to be respected.
“Azerbaijan has been expressing concerns on the views of the Lachin road for supplying armed groups and illegal mine exploitation in Karabakh for a long time. However these concerns and sensitivities were not taken into account and Azerbaijan felt obliged to take measures on its own territory as it deemed to be appropriate within the framework of its sovereign rights.
“We know that Azerbaijan has exercised care to observe humanitarian considerations while these measures were implemented. As a matter of fact, medical evacuations through the Lachin road is possible and Azerbaijan has already allocated the Agdam-Khankendi road for supplying the needs of the Armenian residents in Karabakh.
“Moreover, Azerbaijan has demonstrated its willingness to establish dialogue with the representatives of the local Armenian people to address the issue in a substantial manner. Unfortunately, Azerbaijan’s sincere efforts have not been reciprocated.
“We remain convinced as Turkey that there is a historical opportunity for comprehensive peace, stability and cooperation in the region. To this end we expressed our commitment to the full normalization process with Armenia and took steps in this direction. We continue to strongly support peace talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
It is our firm belief that regional normalization can only be attained through dialogue and goodwill. We will continue to take part in encouraging and supporting efforts towards this goal.”
