Minister Di Maio had a telephone conversation with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Jeyhun Bayramov, to discuss the situation in Nagorno Karabakh and the prospects of the region.
The Minister reiterated the satisfaction with which Italy welcomed the tripartite declaration of 9 November that ended the hostilities. He, therefore, indicated the importance, at this stage, of focusing on the consolidation of the ceasefire, the reduction of tensions, humanitarian aid, and the return of displaced persons.
According to Minister Di Maio, respecting the commitments made by the parties and stabilising the region could create the conditions for the resumption of real negotiations, with a view to a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the conflict. Such an approach should address the issue of the future status of Nagorno Karabakh and ensure full protection of the respective cultural and religious heritage in the area. Di Maio reiterated Italy’s support for the Minsk Group and the Co-Chairs format, hoping that this can resume its mediation work effectively and credibly.
The Minister assured Italy’s willingness to contribute to the relaunch of the negotiation process, for the good of the two populations and the benefit of regional stability. In this regard, he emphasised the prospects for regional integration that lasting peace could open, thus highlighting the importance of reconciliation between the parties.
