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OSCE Special Envoy: Nagorno Karabakh conflict should be solved within the framework of Azerbaijanâ€™s territorial integrity

30 July 2008 17:10 (UTC +04:00)

Talvitie touched upon Nagorno Karabakh conflict and noted that he supported continuation of dialogue between Azerbaijan and Armenia and expected meeting of Foreign Ministers of the two countries. Special Envoy noted that it would better if Foreign Ministers of the two countries met before the elections.
â€œWe hope that dialogue between the sides will be conducted after elections as well. Dialogue based on core principles and will further continue on these principles. Nagorno Karabakh conflict should be solved within the framework of Azerbaijanâ€™s territorial integrity. Territorial integrity and status of Nagorno Karabakh are not in contradiction with each other. Same situation has occurred in Moldova and Georgia. Continuation of negotiations means that there are principles for good results. I hope that there will be new meetings after presidential elections in Azerbaijan,â€ he said. Talvitie touched upon upcoming presidential elections.
â€œOSCE is for assessment of election process. Azerbaijani Government should ensure democratic and transparent elections. We have conducted discussions on freedom of assembly during the meetings with Baku Main Police Department Chief and Baku Mayor and opposition,â€ he said. Talvitie added that Election Code and law on freedom of assembly coincide with international norms.
â€œThe main issue is implementation of these laws. OSCE is ready to assist those, who implement these laws,â€ he said.
Special Envoy stressed that freedom of speech is one of the main principles of democracy.