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Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan reiterated Armenia’s commitment to the principles in the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) negotiation process, ruling out any alternative to a peaceful settlement of the conflict as he was asked to comment on his recent meeting with his Azerbaijani counterpart in Paris.

Speaking to reporters at the Yerablur Military Pantheon on Monday, the day Armenia celebrates the 27th anniversary of the national army, the FM said in this respect they have highlighted an atmosphere conducive to peace as a key factor to push forward the peace process.

“The most important thing we have stated is that the status and security [of Artsakh] remain priority issues for Armenia. The talks center around this,” he said.

The minister gave his strong assurances nothing can affect Armenia’s approaches in the issue.

Commenting on the possible return of Artsakh to the negotiating table, Mnatsakanyan said it requires constant efforts.

“Nagorno-Karabakh’s involvement is also a matter of practical application. If something doesn’t work out immediately, it does not mean we forget about it. This is a very concrete, practical issue for us in order to achieve progress in the negotiation process,” he said.

As for the Minsk Group co-chairs’ statement on preparing the populations for peace, the Armenian foreign policy chief agreed that it is a necessity, adding there is nothing new in the call.

“We work towards peace, but our determination must not be thrown into question. Peace has no alternative: any alternative to peace would imply a catastrophe,” the minister added.