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UK Minister for Europe, Leo Docherty, will underline the UK’s unwavering support for sovereignty and security during a visit to Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan, the British Embassy in Yerevan reported on Monday.

Minister Docherty will emphasise the urgent need for direct peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan to reach a long-term settlement for peace and stability.

On his third visit to the region this year, he will discuss Armenia and Georgia’s democratic reform agendas, and promote UK expertise in aiding Azerbaijan’s transition to renewables.

The UK is stepping up its cooperation and support for peace and stability in the South Caucasus as UK Minister for Europe, Leo Docherty, will underline on his tour of Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan which commences today (Monday 20 November).

The region, located on Russia’s southern border, remains vulnerable to external interference as it recovers from the impacts of conflict and attempts to press ahead with reform agendas in support of democratic choice for freedom and independence.

Building on the formal Strategic Dialogues with all three countries earlier this year, Minister Docherty will extend the UK’s offer of increased trade and security cooperation to help the countries to diversify their and reduce European reliance on Russia.

Ahead of arriving in Yerevan, Minister for Europe Leo Docherty said:

“The South Caucasus faces significant security challenges, both internally and from its neighbours which threaten to destabilise the region.

“In a volatile region, the UK is a reliable partner for reform, peace and stability.”

The Minister for Europe arrives in Yerevan ready to build on the momentum of last week’s UK-Armenia Strategic Dialogue in London, during which both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in trade, security and on the rule of law.