Gabon’s representative at UN appealed to parties to not exacerbate tensions by stoking historical fears or resorting to hate speech

Representative of Gabon at UN Edwige Koumby Missambo, during the UN Security Council special session recalling the deadly fighting in the region in 2020, stressed that everything must be done to avoid a return to the past. 

A political solution based on international law, and particularly the implementation of the 2020 tripartite agreement, is the only option to get out of the murderous cycle of violence, implement a ceasefire, and resolve the situation long-term. 

Diplomatic channels must remain open and partners with influence on the region should step up their engagement to maintain communication toward a political solution. 

The ceasefire agreement yesterday and the just-begun negotiations will make it possible to restore peace in Karabakh and uphold the territorial integrity of each of the parties.  

Welcoming signs of normalization, she called on the parties to adhere to it.  She also called on all parties to facilitate access of humanitarian personnel to population in need without restriction or politicization.

Further, she appealed to the parties to not exacerbate tensions by stoking historical fears or resorting to hate speech.  Rather, they should build on what unites them.