ArmInfo. Today the OSCE itself and its fundamental principles are under attack and pressure. OSCE Chair-in-Office, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta, Ian Borg stated at a joint press conference with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan on May 13 in Yerevan, adding that Malta's chairmanship coincided with many challenges in the OSCE area.
In this vein, Minister Borg stated that despite the abovementioned, Malta accepted the chairmanship of the Organization and declared strengthening the flexibility of the OSCE as one of its priorities. Mr. Borg added that for the successful implementation of the goals set by their chairmanship, sound financial frameworks and effective institutional governance should be ensured. And this requires the will of all 57 members of the organization.
Referring to his visit to the South Caucasus, the diplomat noted that he came to listen to all parties, conduct a needs assessment and engage in dialogue based on the available results.
According to him, the agenda of the meeting with the leadership of Armenia includes the political process taking place with Azerbaijan, the prospects for concluding a peace treaty, as well as basic humanitarian issues.
At the same time, Mr. Borg assured that establishing a stable and long-term peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan remains a priority for the OSCE. According to him, only diplomacy and dialogue can become the path to stability and peace.
"We are confident that constructive dialogue between equals, guided by pragmatism and honesty, is indispensable for achieving lasting peace. The process of delimiting the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan is a valuable step along this path," Mr. Borg said, promising to convey the same messages to Baku, since "after decades of suffering, it is essential that nations achieve the peace and prosperity they deserve."
"As the OSCE, we are ready to be more involved and assist in resolving existing humanitarian issues, in particular for displaced persons and those living in affected areas," he continued. In conclusion, he touched upon cooperation between Armenia and the OSCE, including reforms in the security sector and the fight against climate change. He added that the OSCE is ready to continue interaction with Armenia in all three platforms of the Organization.
"Mr. Mirzoyan, you can rely on us, just as I rely on you. My goal as the current OSCE Chairperson is to deepen cooperation and achieve peace in these difficult times," Mr. Borg concluded.