Armenian Prime Minister Stresses Peace Agenda Amid Tense Military-Political Situation

In light of the ongoing tensions in the region, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has emphasized the urgency of promoting a peace agenda. During recent discussions, Pashinyan expressed hope for reaching an agreement on a comprehensive peace and relations agreement with Azerbaijan, aiming to sign it in the near future.

One key aspect highlighted by Pashinyan is the importance of international recognition of each other's territorial integrity. Furthermore, he underscored the significance of dialogues between Baku and Stepanakert concerning the rights and security of Armenians residing in Nagorno-Karabakh, a stance that has gained increasing support from the international community.

Addressing the matter of border demarcation, Pashinyan confirmed Armenia's support for using the 1975 maps as the basis for further work. He clarified that stability is crucial, but the withdrawal of troops does not dictate the demarcation process. The Armenian Prime Minister also expressed concern about Azerbaijan's military pressure during negotiations, which violates the obligation to refrain from using force or threats, as agreed upon in the Sochi meeting statement.

Regarding Armenia's relations with Russia, Pashinyan clarified that there have been no signals from the West urging the country to sever or harm its ties with Russia. Discussions with Russian partners have been transparent, covering concerns about the current situation and relations. Pashinyan pointed out that Azerbaijan's establishment of an illegal checkpoint in the Lachin Corridor violates Russia's obligation to control it.

Pashinyan acknowledged that the signing of a peace treaty may not be realized before an upcoming meeting in Moscow. He highlighted that progress depends on mutual understanding and agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, while underscoring the importance of international guarantors in achieving lasting peace.

Regarding the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Pashinyan revealed that discussions about Armenia's withdrawal from the organization are ongoing due to its perceived ineffective fulfillment of obligations. CSTO membership has limited Armenia's opportunities for acquiring arms from other countries. However, Pashinyan emphasized that the final decision on withdrawal will hinge on the CSTO's actions towards Armenia.

Reiterating Armenia's readiness to recognize Azerbaijan's territorial integrity of 86,600 square kilometers, which includes Nagorno-Karabakh, Pashinyan emphasized the need for discussions on the rights and security of Armenians in the region through a dialogue between Baku and Stepanakert. He underscored the importance of international guarantees to prevent ethnic cleansing and genocide against Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh.

Regarding the expansion of the Russian border guard service near Meghri, Pashinyan stressed the need for coordinated actions with the Armenian government to ensure they do not challenge Armenia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Pashinyan disclosed that Armenia rejected certain terms in the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh ceasefire agreement during the drafting phase. These included items related to enclaves and a corridor through Armenian territory, which some officials initially supported but were later accused of treason.

The Armenian Prime Minister acknowledged discussions about increasing supervision to comply with Western sanctions against Russia. He stated that Armenia aims to maintain relations with both Western and Russian partners without facing such sanctions, considering its membership in the Eurasian Economic Union and strategic ties with Russia.