Head of EU Delegation in Armenia Responds to Azerbaijan: Any Claim of Engaging in Other Activities Is Unfounded, Slander

In response to recent dissatisfaction expressed by Azerbaijan concerning the European Union Monitoring Mission in Armenia (EUMA), Ambassador Vassilis Maragos, Head of the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Armenia, has distinctly clarified the mission's mandate during a press conference on Wednesday.

Maragos highlighted that the EUMA operates with a meticulously defined mandate exclusively on the Armenian side of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border. Its primary objectives include ensuring a visible presence in the region and conducting patrols to contribute to the reinforcement of peace. The ambassador addressed Azerbaijan's discontent with the mission, asserting, "Any claim that we are engaged in other activities is unfounded, slander."

During the press conference, Maragos emphasized the consistent approach of the EU, highlighting the organization's commitment to peace and stability in the region. He pointed out that any accusations beyond the specified mandate of the EUMA are baseless and do not align with the mission's actual activities.

"This is what the EU has always done, which the head of mission can confirm. Any other accusation or slander about engagement in any other activity is completely unfounded. This is the position of the EU, the position of the EU countries. EU member states have declared their unwavering support for this mission. The EU is firmly committed to strengthening peace and stability in the region," added Maragos.

The clarification comes in the aftermath of a meeting on February 12, where EU Ambassador to Azerbaijan Peter Michalko was summoned to the foreign ministry of Azerbaijan. During the meeting, Azerbaijan expressed serious concerns regarding the activities of the EUMA.