In an interview with News.am on March 15, Toivo Klaar, the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus, said there is no alternative to direct contacts between the Azerbaijani authorities and representatives of the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh.

"The start of direct and visible discussions between representatives of the Armenian population of Karabakh and Baku is a step in the right direction and should be welcomed. Direct contacts have no alternative when it comes to settling differences, which should take place exclusively through negotiations between all relevant stakeholders," the European diplomat noted.

Klaar further emphasized that the dialogue should be aimed at building confidence and not at fomenting confrontation. "We call on all stakeholders to refrain from negative rhetoric and focus on finding compromise solutions that will take into account the legitimate concerns of all parties," the EU Special Representative said.

To recall, Azerbaijan proposes to discuss with Karabakh Armenians the issue of their integration, while Stepanakert (Khankendi) refuses to negotiate on this topic.