Statement on the military escalation in Nagorno-Karabakh

The International Democrat Union (IDU) is very concerned about the renewed escalation of violence in and around Nagorno-Karabakh, and we call for an immediate halt to any military activity in the region. This eruption of violence puts at risk the fragile stability in the south Caucasus region. The IDU has consulted with parties from both Azerbaijan and Armenia. We urge both sides, the Government of Azerbaijan and the Government of Armenia, to immediately agree to a ceasefire. There is no military solution for the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, only a political settlement in accordance with international law.

Therefore, the IDU encourages both sides of the conflict to return to a diplomatic dialogue without pre-conditions and in good faith.

The IDU also asks all other countries in the region to refrain from any action which could fuel the conflict and undermine the desire of people from both countries for a peaceful future. In this regard, the IDU reiterates its support for the OSCE Minsk-group in its efforts to facilitate a peaceful resolution to this conflict.