“Are You the Prime Minister of This Country or a Real Estate Agent for Azerbaijan?” Levon Kocharyan to Nikol Pashinyan

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has come under scrutiny for his handling of border negotiations with Azerbaijan, facing accusations of conceding strategic positions without clear gains for Armenia.

During a session in the National Assembly on March 20, MP Levon Kocharyan of the "Armenia" faction confronted Pashinyan, questioning whether he was acting in the best interests of Armenia or serving as a "real estate agent of Azerbaijan."

Kocharyan expressed concern over the government's approach, highlighting the lack of clarity regarding the basis for border demarcation in the absence of prior delimitation agreements. He criticized the perceived weakness in Armenia's defense posture and the potential ramifications of conceding territory.

In response, Pashinyan defended the negotiations, emphasizing the importance of establishing a legitimate state border for Armenia's security. He reiterated the government's commitment to protecting and restoring Armenia's territorial integrity.

However, Kocharyan raised doubts about Azerbaijan's willingness to reciprocate Armenia's concessions, pointing out the asymmetry in the negotiations. He highlighted Azerbaijan's reluctance to acknowledge Armenia's territorial integrity, despite Armenia's adherence to internationally recognized borders.

Pashinyan sought to reassure the public by showcasing maps of the Republic of Armenia, reaffirming the government's stance on defending its internationally recognized territory. He emphasized that while negotiations were ongoing, Armenia would not compromise its sovereignty.