Nagorno-Karabakh appreciates France’s efforts to help settle Karabakh conflict

YEREVAN, May 29. /ARKA/. Nagorno-Karabakh parliament speaker Ashot Ghulian thanked a group of visiting French MPs for official Paris’ efforts to help forge out a peaceful settlement of the conflict. France is the co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, the only international body mandated to help Armenia and Azerbaijan find a mutually acceptable peace formula.

The French delegation comprised chairman of the France-Armenia parliamentary group Francois Rochebloine and Senators Bernard Sauget and Henri de Renkur. They were accompanied by Nagorno-Karabakh representative in France Hovhannes Gevorgyan.

"We are convinced that France is sympathetic with the aspirations of the Karabakh people to build a sovereign state," Ghulian was quoted as saying in a statement.

Henri de Renkur said that "the Karabakh people preferred to build their future in peace and dialogue, which is typical of strong nations."

"This is the best strategy that will allow these people to achieve their goal. As for us, we will always help you and will be with you as the road you have chosen is the best not only for your country, but also for the whole South Caucasus, "Renkur was quoted as saying.

Senator Bernard Sauget, who first visited Nagorno-Karabakh together with Francois Rochebloine 20 years ago,  said he did not recognize the country  20 years later.

"Twenty years ago Nagorno-Karabakh was in the war and the road that connects it with Armenia looked like a country road and a visit to Artsakh (the Armenian name of Nagorno-Karabakh) was like an expedition. At least outwardly Karabakh looks like a stable state that has managed in recent years to develop in long strides,”Sauget said.

During their travel the French parliamentarians visited the monastery of Gandzasar, the village of Khachen in Askeran region, the Stepanakert airport, local museums. They met with representatives of youth and civil society organizations and attended a concert.-0-