AIR Centre chair warns of political maneuvers in Minsk Group dissolution debate

Farid Shafiyev, Chairman of the Centre for Analysis of International Relations (AIR Centre), has raised concerns over the possibility of a political scenario unfolding around the dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Group.

In a statement, Shafiyev highlighted the complexities of the issue, particularly following the 31st meeting of the OSCE Ministerial Council held in Valletta, where Armenia, along with the US and France, opposed the dissolution of the group, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

Shafiyev suggested that a "political game" could be played surrounding the dissolution process. He speculated that Armenia might publicly agree with Azerbaijan’s proposal on the matter, while countries like France might impede its implementation.

"I do not rule out that such maneuvers can be agreed between them in advance," Shafiyev noted, hinting at possible coordinated actions among the involved parties.

The Centre’s Chairman also proposed a scenario where the issue of dissolving the Minsk Group could be deferred until after a peace agreement is signed between the parties. According to Shafiyev, this approach would allow the focus to shift to the peace agreement first, followed by discussions on the Minsk Group’s future.

The OSCE Minsk Group, established to facilitate a peaceful resolution to the Karabakh conflict, has long been a point of contention in the region. While Azerbaijan has pushed for its dissolution, Armenia, alongside certain international actors, has opposed this move, emphasizing the group’s role in facilitating dialogue.

By Vafa Guliyeva