EU announces support to ICRC and urges Azerbaijan to ensure movement through Lachin corridor

YEREVAN, July 12. /ARKA/. In a statement issued today the EU strongly supported the activities of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) as the only major humanitarian organization present in the South Caucasus, saying it is providing crucial humanitarian assistance and protection to those in need, in accordance with the humanitarian principles of neutrality, independence and impartiality.

‘Their work along the Lachin corridor has been exclusively focused on providing the essential needs for the Armenian population in Karabakh and much needed humanitarian assistance. It is the responsibility of the Azerbaijani authorities to ensure that ICRC can continue its operations and prevent a potential humanitarian crisis,’ the EU said.

Azerbaijan earlier closed the road completely, including ICRC staff and vehicles, citing ‘transportation of unauthorized goods across the Lachin Corridor.’

‘The EU strongly supports the crucial role of the ICRC in the region, and reiterates its call for Azerbaijan to ensure the unrestricted movement of people and goods via the Lachin corridor,’ the statement said. -0-