No:604/22, Press release on working visit of Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeyhun Bayramov to the Russian Federation
On 23 December 2022 Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeyhun Bayramov paid a working visit to the Russian Federation
Within the framework of the visit Minister Jeyhun Bayramov met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov.
During the meeting, the sides discussed the topical issues deriving from the agenda of bilateral and multilateral cooperation between Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation, including the current situation in the region.
Minister Jeyhun Bayramov expressed satisfaction with the existing level of development of bilateral cooperation between the two states in various fields, including political, economic, trade, cultural, humanitarian, and others. In this regard, the significance of the existing legal framework, intensive political dialogue, and increased number of mutual visits have been emphasized. Besides bilateral relations, cooperation issues between the two states at the regional level were also highlighted.
The main topic of discussion was the regional situation, as well as the ongoing protests on the Lachin road in response to illegal economic activities. Jeyhun Bayramov stressed the importance of the implementation of obligations deriving from the 10 November Trilateral Statement and other agreements achieved among the leaders.
It was noted that violation by Armenia of its obligations deriving from the provisions of the Trilateral Statement, illegal exploitation of natural resources in the territories of Azerbaijan, and related ecological degradation and abuse by Armenia of the Lachin road contrary to the purposes outlined in the Trilateral Statement have led to the legitimate protest of Azerbaijani society. In addition, the Russian side was once again informed of ongoing landmine threats and cases of transportation of landmines through the Lachin road.
It was emphasized that unfounded allegations by Armenia on the existing situation as if Azerbaijan closed the Lachin road and imposed a so-called “blockade” on Armenian residents do not reflect the reality and all these allegations are being refuted by the video recordings depicting unimpeded passage of transportation through the Lachin road. Moreover, it was noted that Azerbaijan is determined to continue discussions on the peace treaty with Armenia based on the elements submitted by Azerbaijan during the meeting held on 2 October 2022 in Geneva, despite the absence of Armenia in the planned next meeting in Moscow.
Minister Sergey Lavrov talked about the development of relations between Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation both at bilateral and multilateral levels. In this regard, it was emphasized that there is a wide potential for further developing the relations. Minister Lavrov stressed the importance of the implementation of trilateral statements with a view to eliminating regional tensions and ensuring peace and security in the region.
During the meeting, the sides also exchanged views on other bilateral and regional issues of common interest.
