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"We are trying to create an atmosphere of solidarity in Artsakh, which is crucial for us,” Artsakh Republic President-elect Arayik Harutyunyan said in a video livestreamed on Facebook on Friday, referring to his new appointments.

In Harutyunyan’s words, Masis Mayilyan has been re-appointed as Artsakh Foreign Minister, while Samvel Babayan has been selected as new Secretary of the Artsakh Security Council.

Separately, the Artsakh president reacted to the latest statements of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.

"Of course, I don't want to make offensive comments, but these statements are not worthy of a politician, especially the one that “the force factor is becoming a priority in the world.” Does this mean that you have picked up the path of resolving the problem by force, Mr. Aliyev? We are ready. I want to assure you that the results are clear to us: you will have today what you had in 1994. Don’t ever try to speak to us in the language of force,” Arayik Harutyunyan stressed.

Reacting to Aliyev’s another remark that “our ancient city Yerevan has been handed over to Armenia”, Harutyunyan stressed they have the opportunity to “correct their historical inaccuracies”, but it will be destructive for Azerbaijan.

"Never dare to speak to us in the language of power. We are ready for a peaceful, logical solution of the issue through negotiations. As for your phased settlement remarks, of course, there can be a phased settlement option but only on one condition: first of all, recognition of the right to self-determination, acceptance of our security guarantees, followed by new negotiations. There is no alternative to this,” Harutyunyan said.