U.S. National Statement on the July 29 OSCE Minsk Group Statement
As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires, a.i Courtney Austrian
to the Permanent Council, Vienna
August 5, 2021
Thank you, Madam Chair.
As a Co-Chair country of the Minsk Group, the United States condemns the recent escalation of violence along the international border between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which included reports of casualties, and loss of life. We convey our condolences to the families.
The United States, together with our fellow Minsk Group Co- Chairs, call for Armenia and Azerbaijan to uphold their ceasefire commitments, take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation, and to refrain from provocative rhetoric and actions.
Continued tensions along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border underscore that a comprehensive resolution that addresses all outstanding issues can normalize relations between the two countries and allow the people of the region to live together peacefully.
The United States urges Armenia and Azerbaijan to return as soon as possible to substantive discussions, conducted under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs in accordance with their mandate, to achieve a long-term political settlement to the conflict.
We also urge the parties to investigate alleged human rights violations or abuses or violations of international humanitarian law. We urge both sides to support the work and budget of the CiO’s Personal Representative, who brings valuable transparency to this process.
Thank you, Madam Chair.
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