Kazakhstan, Astana, June 25 / Trend K. Konyrova /
Besides major sides such as Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Russia and Turkey, third sides such as Iran and OSCE countries can participate in creation of security platform in South Caucasus. Iran and OSCE countries will play certain role in solving Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, deputy undersecretary for political affairs of Turkey's foreign ministry Unal Chevikoz said during security forum of Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council held in Astana on June 25.
"Major problem in Caucasus is lack of trust. Creation of this platform is necessary for solving conflicts in South Caucasus. Countries involved in Nagorno-Karabakh conflict must negotiate. Direct dialogue must be held."
Russia and Turkey set down to realization of plan to create Platforms of security and stability in Caucasus in middle of September 2008. The plan includes strive of Turkey and Russia for rapid solving of territorial conflicts in Caucasus between Armenia and Turkey and Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Solving of situation is possible via direct dialogue, Chevikoz said.
The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. Armenian armed forces occupied Nagorno-Karabakh and 7 districts surrounding Nagorno-Karabakh. The co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group - Russia, France, and the U.S. - are currently holding the peace negotiations.