STEPANAKERT (Armenpress)–As already reported–some 40 observers from different states were present in Nagorno-Karabakh to monitor the presidential elections.
Former Russian Ambassador to Armenia Vladimir Stupishin was among the Russian observers.
"The people of Karabakh have the right to self-determination–and I think that the Karabakh conflict can be settled only after the recognition of that right," he said.
"Self-determination is God’s gift–and it should be respected," the former ambassador asserted.
Speaking on the principle of territorial integrity–Stupishin said–"in the former Soviet Union–many autonomous republics–with their territories–were joined to the Union republics. Now–if the autonomy wants to leave the Union republic–it leaves with its own territory–without breaking the Union republic’s borders."
According to Stupishin–the proposals of the three-chairs can not be considered as acceptable–but "it is good that attempt is made to respect the self-determination right of the Karabakh people." As for the political status of the republic–according to him–Karabakh has already decided on it–and other states should not be involved with the issue.
According to the former Ambassador–the assistance to Armenia and Karabakh as strategic allies–proceeds from Russia’s national interests and the military assistance is not at all blame-worthy. "You should protect your allies," concluded Stupishin.
