I cannot rule out the possible deployment of the Russias peace-keeping forces in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone, deputy chairman of the Russian Federation (RF) government, Defense Minister Sergey Ivanov said in a statement on 24 January 2006 in Baku, responding to the journalists questions, Trend reports.
В"In my view, it is premature to speak about it for the moment. I cannot rule it out, in principle, Ivanov said, stressing the primary thing is the policy of the conflict diplomatic settlement, after which one can consider seriously and speak about the specific options for the peace-keeping process, including the opportunities involving the RF armed forces.
В"It is also possible within the framework of the multi-national forces, the RF Defense Minister said.
Along with this, he noted the issue (stationing of the peace-keeping forces- Trend) is secondary. Primary is the conflict settlement as such.
In the morning of 24 January Sergey Ivanov attended the Cemetery of Honours and laid a wreath to the grave of the Azerbaijan former president Heydar Aliyev.
After that holding the press conference at the Azerbaijan Defense Ministry, meeting with the Defense Ministry Safar Abiyev are supposed.
Meetings of Ivanov with the Prime Minister Artur Rasizade and president Ilham Aliyev are also scheduled.
Attending the radio-locating station (RLS) in Gabala area by Sergey Ivanov is scheduled for 25 January, followed by his departure to Erevan, Armenia.
Sergey Ivanov arrived in Baku in the evening of 24 January.