ArmInfo. In recent months, in the course of joint efforts of international mediators and the states of the region, it has been possible to achieve a reduction of tension in Nagorno-Karabakh. Colonel-General Anatoly Sidorov, Chief of the CSTO Joint Staff, announced this on February 6 during the video bridge Yerevan-Moscow-Minsk-Chisinau-Astana-Bishkek.
He noted that the efforts made provided an opportunity to intensify the dialogue, as well as further work to resolve the conflict. Sidorov also noted that the recent regular meetings between the representatives of the leadership of Armenia and Azerbaijan have made it possible to reach certain agreements on taking measures aimed at strengthening confidence and creating conditions for the peace process. "I want to note that for the first time in the last decades a direct link has been established at such a high level," the colonel general said.
Touching upon the situation regarding the possible appointment of a new CSTO Secretary General, Sidorov stressed that the leaders of the organization's member countries would take an appropriate decision on this issue. "I believe that the leaders of our countries are quite wise and experienced people and will be able to make the right decision in connection with the CSTO Secretary General. The CSTO Joint Headquarters is a working body that is ready to carry out any decision made by the heads of state," the colonel general said.
On the question of whether the CSTO leadership has information that Nakhichevan is planning to build a Turkish military base, Sidorov said that they do not have such information. To note, after Yuri Khachaturov was recalled by Armenia from the post of CSTO Secretary General, this post remains vacant. Armenia insists on maintaining this position until 2020. Meanwhile, Belarus proposes its candidate for this post - Security Council Secretary Stanislav Zas.