Experts: Minsk Group must adapt to new realities in region

The Minsk group must adapt to new realities and understand changed dynamics, Khalid Taimur Akram, Executive Director at the Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), told Report.

"I believe that OSCE Minsk group will definitely understand the post-war scenario and devise policies accordingly. An integrated future plan of action with designed goals and targets will open new doors for cooperation and joint ventures. The group has a potential to play a proactive role in the post conflict settlement between Azerbaijan and Armenia," he said.

According to the Pakistani expert, Azerbaijan has always remained peaceful towards its goals. However, even after the war, Armenia has been indulged in state-sponsored terrorism in the liberated regions, violating the agreement and destabilizing peace.

"Thus, Armenia must be held accountable by the Minsk group and international community to shed its pessimistic approach and strive for regional stability and economic cooperation," he said.

The expert noted that now, as the war has been concluded with the victory of Azerbaijan, the socio-economic and political dynamics have been changed in the South Caucasus region. Russia brokered the ceasefire agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Throughout the war, Turkey has remained supportive towards Azerbaijan and also facilitating the rehabilitation process in the liberated areas.

"The Minsk group must adapt to new realities and understand changed dynamics," he said.

On his part, Taras Kuzio, a Research Fellow at Henry Jackson Society think tank in London, believes that so far there are no meaningful changes in the approach of the Minsk Group.

"France, whose politicians have started their presidential election campaigns in Armenia, has long shown itself to be biased towards Azerbaijan," he noted, adding that the Minsk Group can only be revitalised if France is replaced by the EU.