EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice President of the European Commission Catherine Ashton’s exclusive interview to Mediamax
– Armenian PM and other senior officials stated recently that in 2012 they aim to hold “the most transparent and fair elections over the whole 20-year history of independence”. How important are such pledges for the EU-Armenia political dialogue?
– This is very important. It is a strong positive signal that we expect now to be translated into concrete steps to prepare the elections well. As always we stand ready to offer support and advice, to the elections and to the many other aspects which together make up the concept of “deep democracy”, which lies at the heart of the Eastern Partnership: freedom of association, expression and assembly, rule of law administered by an independent judiciary and the right to a fair trail, the effective fight against corruption, as well as security and law enforcement sector reform.
– European officials are saying that EU should play a more active role in the Nagorno Karabakh conflict settlement. Taking into account the fact that EU doesn’t want to replace the OSCE Minsk Group, how do you see this more “active role”?
– We fully support the OSCE Minsk Group in its efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution of the conflict on the basis of the principles of the non-use of force, territorial integrity and self-determination of people. The EU’s aim is not to change the format, nor to gain influence over the different sides, but to offer more active and stronger support.
We can help create a positive environment, including through confidence-building measures. From our own history, we have experience in conflict resolution and reconciliation, which we are willing to share.We also think it is high time to achieve a settlement, as it would provide a boost to the development of the region, help ensure stability and make it easier for the people of the region to travel and trade. It will help create jobs and stimulate economic growth. There should be no further delay. The conflict is holding the region hostage. .
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– It is no secret for anyone that Azerbaijani President and Government members are frequently making bellicose statements and saying that war is an option for settling the NK issue. During this year you have at least twice publicly criticised Azerbaijan for human rights violations. Why don’t you also call on Azerbaijan to stop war propaganda?
– There can only be a negotiated solution to the conflict, and rhetoric suggesting otherwise is unhelpful, from whichever side it comes. What counts is progress in the talks, and the readiness on both sides to make difficult compromises.
– European Parliament adopted a “European Neighborhood Policy Review” Resolution this April 7. It contains an urge to develop “informal contacts and consultations with the societies of breakaway territories”? It is realistic to expect that European Commission is going to follow this urge?
– Confidence building, including through people-to-people contacts, is necessary to promote mutual understanding. The EU can help both sides engage with each other, prepare the ground for a solution, show the advantages of peace and of a peaceful Caucasus strongly connected to the EU.