ArmInfo. The co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group issued a statement in connection with the suspension by the office of the Personal Representative of the Organization's Representative, Andrzej Kasprzyk of monitoring in the region.
''Noting the current suspension of monitoring exercises by the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office due to the exceptional situation created by the spread of COVID-19, the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stephane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America) appeal to the sides to reaffirm their commitment to observe the ceasefire strictly and refrain from any provocative action that could further raise tensions during this period. Recognizing that the region's medical resources should be dedicated exclusively to combating the spread of the virus and treating those affected, we urge the sides to exercise the greatest possible restraint to lessen the risk of escalation including by making maximum use of the existing direct communication links. Despite the heavy restrictions on international travel, the Co-Chairs will continue their mediation efforts without interruption, remaining in close contact with each other and with the sides. As ArmInfo previously reported, Kasprzyk's office announced yesterday the suspension of monitoring activities in the region due to the coronavirus epidemic and restrictions imposed on travel.