I have indeed had in-depth discussions with the Armenian government, the Prime Minister of Armenia, about the situation and the importance of working to make progress within a possible peace agreement. We had very concrete and clear discussions, we talked about what elements we should take into account to ensure greater stability and security in the region.

The statement came from EU Council President Charles Michel at a joint press conference with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in response to the question “what can the European Union do to persuade Armenia to start negotiations on a peace agreement?”

Charles Michel said: “I also had the opportunity to deliver messages to the President of Azerbaijan. I told both the President of Azerbaijan and the Prime Minister of Armenia that the European Union is ready to play as positive and constructive a role as possible. Of course, we respect the role played by the Minsk Group. However, this does not mean that it is impossible for the European Union to provide certain expert knowledge, support and ideas and support certain possible progress to ensure more stability, security and lasting peace in the region.

Source:  Azerbaijan State News Agency