No big expectations from Mnatsakanyan-Mammadyarov meeting: expert

The subversive act by Azerbaijani side on the eve of the meeting between Armenian and Azerbaijani foreign ministers in New York on September 23 shows that Azerbaijan has exhausted the stores of its false constructiveness, director of Hayatsk think tank Anna Karapetyan said.

“Azerbaijan continues its policy of conducting negotiations in conditions of threat of usage of force. Recently the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry stated openly that they do not see any problems in conducting negotiations in such conditions. Thus, Azerbaijan is trying to pressure Armenia through threats,” the expert stated.

She said that the growth of the tension on border on the eve of such meetings is not a novelty but usual act of style by Azerbaijan.

“After the revolution in Armenia Baku started manifesting false constructiveness and even stayed committed to Dushanbe arrangements for a while which was perceived by Armenian authorities as own diplomatic achievement. The latest subversive act, Azerbaijani rhetoric, frequent violations show that there are no grounds for optimism and positive expectations,” she said, adding that the constructive position adopted by Azerbaijan was aimed at understanding the situation and fostering own positions.

The expert said the meeting between the two foreign ministers does not promise anything.

“Naturally, they will discuss the situation on the border, voice reciprocal accusation of violation of ceasefire, the Armenian side will probably try to push forward Dushanbe+ idea, agree new measures of trust including the steps agreed in Vienna and St. Petersburg. Supposedly, the humanitarian issues will also be discussed. But the general atmosphere is not favorable for effective dialogue and it will not be realistic to expect clear steps,” she said, adding that the discussion of humanitarian issues without Stepanakert is illogical.