Lachin Corridor Must Be Opened Now, Says European Parliament Member Robert Heisel

The long-term blockade of the Lachin Corridor, which is the only means for Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh to connect with Armenia, is deeply concerning. This was stated by Member of the European Parliament Robert Heisel during hearings on the humanitarian consequences of the blockade at the European Parliament.

The EU has called on Azerbaijan to take all necessary measures to ensure the free movement of people and goods through this corridor. The humanitarian situation, which has already worsened due to the cessation of gas supply, is only deteriorating and could soon turn into a humanitarian disaster if the blockade is not lifted immediately.

About 120,000 people lack access to goods and services, including medicines, food, and fuel. “We must categorically condemn the blockade of the corridor and urge the Azerbaijani authorities and peacekeeping forces in the region to implement the trilateral agreement and immediately ensure access to the corridor. We know that both countries, and especially Armenia, are dissatisfied with the current state of the 2020 ceasefire. The parties must negotiate to bring peace and stability to the region, but the Lachin Corridor must be opened now,” Heisel stated.