Question. Mr. Nalbandian, the President of the Republic put forward preconditions – in which case the negotiations would resume. We would like to know whether there are any reactions of the international community.

Edward Nalbandian. I had a meeting with the members of Hay Dat Committees yesterday in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and in the ensuing press release on the meeting, it was clearly stated what we have on numerous occasions stated, i.e. as for now the meetings and discussions may concern as of how to preclude, prevent the repetition of what happened in early April, when Azerbaijan unleashed large-scale military aggressive actions against Nagorno-Karabakh. And, of course, respective mechanisms should be in place, which would allow guaranteeing this, so that it could be possible to create conditions for resumption of the negotiation process later on.

Question. Mr. Nalbandian, it seems that Armenia abstains from the recognition of Nagorno-Karabakh. What is the reason in that case? You say that once there is aggression, the authorities would recognize, and now we have witnessed the aggression.

Edward Nalbandian. The question is, that in conclusion of the government on the initiative of two parliamentarians it is clearly stated that it would depend on the negotiations between Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh, and other developments, including on the international arena.

Question. What are we afraid of?

Edward Nalbandian. It is not a matter of fear, we are not afraid of anything. One should take into consideration that this is a very delicate issue and there is no need for sudden and emotional approaches.

The international community shares our approaches and our position is in line with that of the international community. Five statements of the Heads of Co-Chair countries about the Nagorno-Karabakh were just about it. You are aware that up to date Azerbaijan refrains from referring to those five statements. And those five statements are the very position of the international community on the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh issue. I would like to recall, that over these days yet again it was stated from the United States, from France and from Russia that the pivotal issue of the negotiations is the issue of self-determination of Nagorno-Karabakh. It always had a central role in the negotiations, during which everything should be made to secure both recognition and implementation of the right of Nagorno-Karabakh to self-determination.

Question. Mr. Minister, there were some speculations that the issue of recognition of Nagorno-Karabakh was pushed out of the agenda or discussions as a result of pressure by Russia.

Edward Nalbandian. That is nonsense.