EU “takes note” of binding order by ICJ, reiterates call on Azerbaijan to guarantee free movement in Lachin corridor

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 24, ARMENPRESS. The EU takes note of thebindingorderissued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ),indicatingthat Azerbaijan shalltake all measures at its disposal toensure unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo along theLachin corridorin both directions, the European Union’s External Action Service (EEAS) said in a statement.

“The European Union takes note of thebindingOrderissued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ),indicatingthat Azerbaijan shalltake all measures at its disposal toensure unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo along theLachin corridorin both directions.

The EU remainsconcernedabout theobstructionsthat continue to be in place inthe Lachin corridor and theresultinghumanitarian implications for the local civilian population.All concernsofAzerbaijan about the usage of the corridor can and should be addressed exclusively through dialogue.

The EU reiterates its call on the Azerbaijani authorities, and all those responsible,to guarantee the freedom and safety of movement along the Lachin corridor, inline withcommitments undertaken under thetrilateralstatementof9November 2020. We also underscore the vital need to ensure uninterrupted supplies of gas, electricity and other services to the affected population.

The EU remains engaged, includingat the highest,level to support efforts towards strengthening peace and security in the South Caucasus,” reads the statement issued by EEAS spokesperson Peter Stano.

The United Nations’ highest court – the International Court of Justice - ordered Azerbaijan on Wednesday to “take all steps at its disposal” to ensure unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo along the Lachin Corridor in both directions. The Lachin Corridor is blocked by Azerbaijan since 12 December 2022.