Armenian Ambassador to the Council of Europe (CoE), Arman Khachatryan, voiced apprehensions about the recent statements from Azerbaijan, alleging them as possible threats to regional peace efforts. In a meeting with the CoE Committee of Ministers, Khachatryan expressed disapproval of Azerbaijan’s aggressive rhetoric, failure to respect agreements, and imposition of new demands on Armenia. These actions, according to him, obstruct the path to peace and stability in the region.
Khachatryan called on the Committee of Ministers to take decisive actions to prevent Azerbaijan from worsening the regional situation. He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and respect for international law, referring to recent incidents where Azerbaijan allegedly penetrated 20 km into Armenian territory. In response, Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan highlighted the significance of international legal legitimacy regarding borders and territorial integrity. Khachatryan, supporting Pashinyan’s stance, expressed his concerns about these intrusions and implored for countermeasures.
Khachatryan also drew attention to the report on human rights by CoE Commissioner Dunja Mijatovic, which followed her visit to Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Nagorno-Karabakh. He stressed that the report contradicts Azerbaijan’s allegations about the obstruction of the Lachin corridor and the forced displacement of Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh. In response to Baku leader Ilham Aliyev’s statements about the ‘Zangezur corridor’, Pashinyan said that Armenia is prepared to open the road to Nakhichevan for Azerbaijan under the same conditions as Iran.
The Azerbaijani Ambassador to France criticized a draft resolution in the French Senate condemning Azerbaijan’s military attack on Nagorno-Karabakh, claiming it was based on erroneous information. MEP Nathalie Loiseau countered by questioning the ambassador’s understanding of democracy and the rule of law, and emphasized the close ties between France and Armenia. She supported the draft resolution, which calls for the prevention of further aggression by Azerbaijan, the introduction of sanctions, and guarantees for the right of the Armenian population to return to Nagorno-Karabakh.
Ending his address, the Armenian ambassador reiterated Armenia’s dedication to establishing lasting peace in the region, based on the principles agreed upon. Khachatryan’s speech serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions in the region and the crucial role international organizations like the CoE play in fostering peace and stability.