UN chief urges freedom and security of movement along Lachin corridor

UN Secretary-General António Guterres is concerned about the ongoing developments around the Lachin corridor, the sole road connecting Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) to Armenia, according to a statement released by UN spokesman Stéphane Dujarric on Wednesday.

“The Secretary-General is following with concern the ongoing developments around the Lachin corridor.  The Secretary-General urges the sides to de-escalate tensions and to ensure freedom and security of movement along the corridor, in line with the previously reached agreements. The Secretary-General reiterates his support to the ongoing mediation efforts in the region,” reads the statement.

The blockade began on Monday morning, when a group of Azerbaijanis, who claimed to be environmental activists, stopped traffic on the only road connecting Artsakh to the outside world, citing “illegal” mining activity there. Later on Tuesday, Azerbaijan also cut off the gas supply to Artsakh.