Co-chairs working on new peace plan

The OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs are working on new comprehensive proposals to address the problems and needs voiced by Azeri and Armenian Presidents, says a communiqué adopted in the wake of the Key West talks between the two presidents and the co-chairs.

The essence of the proposal is not being elaborated, but diplomatic sources say it is based on mutual compromises.

Addressing a news briefing after the negotiations, US under secretary of state Phillip Ricker and US Minsk Group co-chair Carey Cavanaugh gave a positive assessment to the negotiations.

"We achieved more progress than we had expected", they said.

Mr. Cavanaugh emphasized the desire of both presidents to adhere and enforce the cease-fire regime.

With regard to the continuation of the talks in a new format, Mr. Cavanaugh said the next round would be held in Geneva in June.

President Bush is expected to meet individually with the two presidents Monday night.*