Armenia’s foreign minister, Ararat Mirzoyan, reported a frank and productive discussion with Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov during their talks in Moscow on March 20. The exchange, as cited by TASS, was described as fully sincere and constructive, with Mirzoyan noting that both bilateral and regional concerns were on the table.
Lavrov later commented that he and Mirzoyan together examined the current state of affairs in a candid manner. They discussed how to move toward a normalization of tensions surrounding Nagorno-Karabakh, emphasizing that the situation they faced is real and requires careful, practical steps that align with the tripartite agreements already in place. Lavrov underscored that the assessment of the regional situation must be anchored in factual developments and the commitments previously established among the involved parties.
Lavrov also reiterated that the tripartite declarations—those issued by the leaders of Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan—remain an essential framework for regional stability. He stressed that progress within that framework is critical to maintaining balance and reducing volatility across the broader South Caucasus region.
In Armenia, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan highlighted the role of Russian peacekeepers in preventing a humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh from spiraling into a disaster. He credited their presence with providing essential relief and keeping avenues for aid and dialogue open during periods of heightened tension.
The discussions in Moscow reflect ongoing coordination among Moscow, Yerevan, and Baku as regional actors continue to seek viable paths to de-escalation, humanitarian access, and sustainable governance in Nagorno-Karabakh. As officials meet regularly, the focus remains on practical steps that can be implemented within the existing tripartite framework to bolster stability and provide assurances to residents on the ground. At the heart of the talks is a shared commitment to reduce the risk of renewed confrontations while supporting humanitarian relief efforts and the needs of civilians who have endured years of disruption. The exchange signals both countries’ willingness to translate diplomatic language into concrete actions that can be measured and verified by all sides involved. [Citation: TASS report on Mirzoyan and Lavrov meeting]