Forecast: Return of the Karabakh settlement process to the OSCE  framework is impossible

ArmInfo.The return of the Karabakh settlement process to the OSCE framework is impossible. A similar opinion was expressed to ArmInfo by Fyodor Lukyanov, director  for scientific work of the Valdai International Discussion Club, a  well-known Russian analyst.  

"The problem is that the OSCE as an organization does not have the necessary influence or mechanisms for this. At the same time, the Karabakh issue within the OSCE Minsk  Group will undoubtedly be used to remind Russia and not only Russia  of the presence and interests of the United States and France. A new  diplomatic game, in which Washington and Paris are trying to return  to the settlement process, has already begun, "he said.

On November 16, representatives of the US State Department announced  the commitment of the US and France to the format of the OSCE Minsk  Group on Artsakh. This topic was discussed during the talks between  US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and French Foreign Minister  Jean-Yves Le Drian. It is assumed that this will be the subject of  discussion at today's meeting of the co-chairs in Moscow.  According  to the analyst, the trilateral ceasefire statement of November 10 de  facto has already changed not only the status quo, but the entire  scheme, the model of the negotiation process to resolve the conflict.   Against this background, the OSCE Minsk Group turns into a formal  factor, and all agreements "on the ground" are implemented by Russia,  Turkey and the parties to the conflict. At the same time, Turkey is  not a party to the agreements only formally.

"Of course, neither the United States nor France intend to agree with  this fait accompli. And now, in order to regain their own influence  on the events around Artsakh, they will insist on returning the  settlement process to the OSCE MG canvas. As for the content of the  ceasefire statement, I will I assess it as carrying new opportunities  and new risks. Significant risks, moreover, for all participants and  not only, "summed up Lukyanov.

On November 10, the leaders of Russia, Armenia and Azerbaijan adopted  a joint ceasefire statement, according to which Armenia is making a  number of territorial concessions. Yerevan undertook to transfer to  Baku the Karvachar, Aghdam and Kashatag regions. All the territories  occupied during the war remain with Azerbaijan. Berdzor corridor - 5  km wide, will provide communication between Artsakh and Armenia under  the control of Russian peacekeepers, who will also be deployed along  the line of contact in Artsakh.