On Thursday, 19 November, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell welcomed, on behalf of the EU, the cessation of hostilities in and around Nagorno-Karabakh following the Russian-brokered ceasefire concluded between Armenia and Azerbaijan on 9 November (see EUROPE 12601/14).
In the declaration, issued concurrently with a videoconference of EU ministers of foreign affairs that addressed the subject, the EU calls on all parties to continue to strictly respect the ceasefire.
It also calls for all regional actors to refrain from any actions or statements that could jeopardise the ceasefire and for the full and prompt withdrawal of all foreign fighters from the region. “The EU will follow closely the implementation of the provisions of the ceasefire, especially with regard to its monitoring mechanism”, warns the High Representative. Russia has set up several observation posts with peacekeeping forces. “Any war crimes that may have been committed must be investigated”, adds the EU, which reaffirms its opposition to the use of force.
Mr Borrell also reiterates that this cessation of hostilities is only a “first step” towards ending the long-standing conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh. “Efforts must be renewed for a negotiated, comprehensive and sustainable settlement of the conflict, including on the status of Nagorno-Karabakh”, says the High Representative, reiterating the EU’s full support of the OSCE Minsk Group. “The EU stands ready to effectively contribute in the shaping of a durable and comprehensive settlement of the conflict, including where possible through support for stabilisation, post-conflict rehabilitation and confidence-building measures”, explains the High Representative.
With a reminder that international humanitarian law must be respected, the EU is encouraging the parties to implement the agreements on the exchange of prisoners of war and repatriation of remains that were reached on 30 October in Geneva. “The EU underlines the importance of guaranteeing humanitarian access and the best possible conditions for the voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return of the displaced populations in and around Nagorno-Karabakh”, adds the EU.
According to the High Representative, the European Union and its Member States are prepared to provide additional assistance to meet the immediate needs of the civilian populations affected by the conflict.
On Thursday, 19 November, the European Commission—putting its money where its mouth is—announced an additional €3 million in humanitarian aid on top of the €900,000 allocated since early October. This aid will be used to provide basic assistance, including food, winter items, medical support, medical equipment, and other essentials, to those affected by the fighting. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)