Azerbaijan seeks stronger OSCE role in post-conflict stability, calls out Armenia’s actions

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioğlu held productive discussions on a range of regional challenges and security concerns during their meeting in Baku.

At a joint press conference following the talks, Minister Bayramov noted that they addressed various pressing issues, including threats to peace and stability and the fight against discrimination, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

Bayramov highlighted the significance of the negotiations, which covered several critical areas. "During our meeting, we provided detailed information on the current state of cooperation between Azerbaijan and the OSCE, focusing on regional challenges and the post-conflict normalisation process," he stated.

The minister further elaborated on the ongoing rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in Azerbaijan, particularly in areas affected by conflict. The discussions also covered broader regional stability issues, with an emphasis on enhancing peace efforts and addressing emerging threats to security within the OSCE framework.

Bayramov reiterated the importance of continued cooperation with the OSCE in promoting stability and peace in the region, stressing Azerbaijan's commitment to addressing the challenges in the post-conflict period and working toward sustainable development and security.

The Azerbaijani minister expressed strong condemnation regarding the recent burning of the Azerbaijani flag during a procession in Yerevan on April 23, deeming the act unacceptable.

Bayramov called on both Armenia and France, where similar actions had occurred the day before, to take a firm stance against such provocative and disrespectful behaviour. He emphasised that these actions undermine efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in the region.

"The burning of the Azerbaijani flag is an act of provocation that has no place in any peaceful and civilised discourse," Bayramov stated, reinforcing Azerbaijan's commitment to addressing such challenges through diplomatic channels. The top diplomat reiterated the importance of both Armenia and France working to discourage such harmful actions that perpetuate tensions.

Shifting focus to the broader geopolitical landscape, Bayramov also raised concerns about the continued relevance of the OSCE Minsk Group, an organisation established to mediate the resolution of the Karabakh conflict. He argued that, with the liberation of Azerbaijani territories and the ongoing post-conflict normalisation process, there is no logical reason for the existence of the Minsk Group. "The OSCE Minsk Group was created to address the Karabakh conflict, which has been resolved through Azerbaijan's efforts. Therefore, there is no justification for its continuation," Bayramov asserted.

The minister further stated that Azerbaijan has formally requested the dissolution of the Minsk Group and related institutions, emphasising that if Armenia genuinely seeks a comprehensive and lasting resolution to the conflict, it should not continue to support the Minsk Group’s operations.

Bayramov also expressed concern over Armenia’s continued military buildup, noting that despite progress in the normalisation of relations, the ongoing armament of Armenia remains a destabilising factor. In light of these developments, he emphasised the necessity for changes to Armenia’s constitution, which includes territorial claims that hinder the peace process.

Bayramov also highlighted the country’s commitment to demining and enhancing cybersecurity, announcing that Azerbaijan plans to leverage the experience and expertise of the OSCE in these critical areas.

The minister emphasised the importance of collaboration between Azerbaijan and the OSCE, particularly in the fields of mine clearance and digital security, which are vital to the country’s post-conflict recovery and stability.

Bayramov underlined the pressing issue of landmines, which continue to pose a severe risk to civilians. He reported that nearly 400 people have fallen victim to landmine blasts, with most casualties being innocent civilians. This stark reminder of the hazards of unexploded ordnance further emphasises the urgency of effective mine clearance programs in these regions.

“The sphere of joint interests between Azerbaijan and the OSCE includes communication projects, and we plan to use the OSCE’s experience to aid in mine clearance efforts,” Bayramov said.

Additionally, Bayramov said that he had provided Sinirlioğlu with a comprehensive update on the ongoing restoration and reconstruction activities in the territories of Azerbaijan that were liberated following the conflict with Armenia. The minister shared that residents are gradually returning to their homes, marking a positive step in the country’s efforts to rebuild and reintegrate these areas.

The minister also drew attention to the cooperation program signed between Azerbaijan and the OSCE in 2022, which is aimed at supporting various national development initiatives.

He further stressed that Sinirlioğlu’s visit to Baku Port further underscored the expanding partnership between the two parties, as the OSCE Secretary General was briefed on Azerbaijan’s plans for the port’s expansion—a vital component of the nation’s economic recovery and regional connectivity efforts.

By Vafa Guliyeva