New Artsakh leader says use of other routes cannot replace Lachin corridor
Artsakh’s new President Samvel Shahramanyan does not oppose the operation of other roads, stressing however they cannot replace the Lachin Corridor, the sole land link between Armenia and Artsakh blocked by Baku.
Shahramanyan was elected as new Artsakh president in an extraordinary parliament session on Saturday. 23 MPs took part in the election, with 22 voting for Shahramanyan and one against.
"Nagorno-Karabakh must gain status, we must have a direct link with Armenia through the Lachin corridor. Other routes can be used, but they cannot replace the corridor," Shahramanyan said, addressing lawmakers.
He highlighted the importance of the presidential institute to confront the current challenges, stressing the need for a sober assessment of the situation by the country’s leader.
Shahramanyan insisted on bilateral or mediated negotiations with Azerbaijan. “Stepanakert should become a party to negotiations,” he stressed.
The president called for national consolidation to keep Artsakh Armenian. After his speech he answered the deputies' questions.