Uzbekistan and the European Union (EU) have both issued statements refusing to recognize the presidential elections held in the unrecognized Nagorno-Karabakh Republic (NKR) on September 9, 2023. Uzbekistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly reiterated its support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan while condemning any interference in its internal affairs. Similarly, the EU expressed its non-recognition of the constitutional and legal framework within which the elections were conducted.
Uzbekistan's Stance
Uzbekistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement denouncing the elections in Nagorno-Karabakh, stating,
"Uzbekistan strongly supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the friendly Republic of Azerbaijan, condemns any interference in its internal affairs and does not recognize the so-called presidential elections in Karabakh."
This declaration aligns Uzbekistan firmly with Azerbaijan and underscores its commitment to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations.
NKR's Election Outcome
At a special meeting on September 9, the parliament of the unrecognized Nagorno-Karabakh Republic elected Samvel Shahramanyan as the new president. He secured a decisive vote, with 22 out of 23 deputies supporting his candidacy, making him the sole candidate for the post. The departure of the previous president, Arayik Harutyunyan, who had submitted his resignation to parliament on September 1, led to the need for these elections.
EU's Non-Recognition and Support
The European Union echoed Uzbekistan's position by issuing a statement emphasizing its non-recognition of the elections. The EU's statement read,
"In connection with the holding of the so-called 'presidential elections' in Khankendi/Stepanakert on September 9, 2023, the European Union reiterates that it does not recognize the constitutional and legal framework within which they were held."
However, the EU also expressed a desire to see the Armenian population of Karabakh unite around a leadership willing to engage in constructive discussions with Baku, indicating its readiness to support such a process.
Earlier Daryo reported that Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan have forged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bolster their joint efforts in the realm of cybersecurity. This partnership aims to improve their cooperation and readiness to address significant cybersecurity events by harnessing technical, financial, and human resources.
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