"Russia must influence Armenia", says Foreign Minister

In order to achieve progress in the settlement of the Garabagh conflict, Russia must influence Armenia, Azeri foreign minister Vilayat Guliyev told journalists Friday.

Touching upon the role Russia is playing in the region, the minister said it was necessary for other countries of the world to crack down on Armenia as well.

"In the contemporary world, to change borders by means of violence and occupation is devoid of any prospects. It is a clear fact that Armenia will never succeed in legitimizing its occupation of Azeri lands", said Mr. Guliyev.

According to him, by voicing the intention of supporting a peace plan being agreed upon by Azerbaijan and Armenia, Russia is actually distancing itself from the peace process.*