Dutch Parliament Proposes Opening Embassy in Yerevan

The coalition of four parties in the Dutch Parliament has proposed that the government allocate 2 million euros to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to open an embassy in Yerevan. Joel Fordevind, a member of the Christian Union parliamentary group and a member of the House of Representatives' Foreign Affairs Committee, noted in an interview with Armenpress that this step would assure the Netherlands' support for the Armenian government as it continues its reforms, its fight against corruption, and its commitment to human rights.

"Initiated by the Christian Union parliamentary group, the coalition's four parties proposed to open an embassy in Yerevan. We wish to support the Velvet Revolution that took place in Armenia, the courageous steps that the new government is taking in the fight against corruption, the protection of human rights, and the strengthening of democracy. Through this political move, we want to express our commitment to increasing trade volumes. We want to strengthen our relations with Armenia," emphasized the parliamentarian.

The question of "why now" has a clear answer according to him: after the Velvet Revolution in Armenia, this sends a positive message to Yerevan demonstrating the Netherlands' support in standing firmly against corruption and human rights violations, as well as strengthening the judicial system. "This will create more favorable conditions for our companies and businesses to operate in a more stable environment in Armenia," he added.

The parliament member has raised the issue of Turkey's incursion into Syria during discussions in parliament. He noted that the attacks on Armenians in Syria are reminiscent of the Armenian Genocide. "As a NATO member, Turkey is attacking the sovereign state of Syria. Armenians are once again being persecuted and even killed; just days ago, two Armenians fell victim to terrorism in Qamishli. We witnessed the recognition of the Armenian Genocide in the U.S. Congress; our parliament also condemned it, and we continue to pressure our government to recognize the Armenian Genocide," emphasized Joel Fordevind, who is also a co-chair of the Armenia-Netherlands Friendship Group.