Moscow does not take sides in the matter of normalizing relations between Baku and Yerevan. Instead, Russia is deeply invested in stabilizing the situation and fostering good-neighborly relations between the fraternal nations. This statement was made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during a press conference following discussions with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan.
Responding to a journalist’s question about the perception that "Moscow’s official or media rhetoric often aligns with Azerbaijan’s stance," Lavrov emphasized that this interpretation is incorrect. “When it comes to issues in the South Caucasus and the normalization of Armenia-Azerbaijan relations, your question suggests the impression that we are taking one side,” Lavrov said to the journalist. “That is not the case.”
“We are addressing issues that, in our view, are highly relevant—namely, the normalization of relations between Yerevan and Baku—based on our profound interest in ensuring that our fraternal nations live in peace and harmony,” the Russian minister stressed.
Lavrov highlighted that Russia maintains strategic partnerships and alliances with both Armenia and Azerbaijan and is “deeply committed” to these relationships. Unlike other nations that are geographically distant from the South Caucasus, he pointed out, these countries often promote an entirely different agenda aimed at perpetuating tension in the region. “Their goal,” Lavrov noted, “is to exploit this tension to advance their own geopolitical interests more effectively.”
Russia, on the other hand, he reiterated, operates based on agreements reached with the consent of both Yerevan and Baku in a trilateral format at the highest level between 2020 and 2022. “A whole series of trilateral agreements have been signed—on general normalization, a peace treaty, the unblocking of economic and transport links in the region, and the future delimitation and demarcation of borders. We participate in this process exactly to the extent that Yerevan and Baku deem necessary—no more, no less,” Lavrov concluded.
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Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry
Based on TASS materials