If Aliyev's Provocative Statements Are Followed by Provocative Actions, the Armenian Response Will Be More Than Adequate, MP Tatev Hayrapetyan

Aliyev is trying to create an illusion that the negotiation process is 'stalled.' This was written by MP Tatev Hayrapetyan from the 'My Step' faction on her Facebook page.

“After a long hiatus, Aliyev decided to respond yesterday to the seven points published by Prime Minister Pashinyan, which are aimed exclusively at restoring a healthy atmosphere, building mutual trust, and establishing international monitoring mechanisms as a crucial foundation for enhancing the effectiveness of the negotiation process. However, the dictatorial president of Azerbaijan responded with expressions unworthy of diplomacy, directed at an internal audience. With his anti-Armenian statements, militaristic rhetoric, and unconstructive posture, Aliyev is attempting to create an illusion that the negotiation process is 'stalled.' There is no deadlock in terms of format or process.

The Armenian side has consistently taken a constructive stance, emphasizing that there is no military solution to the problem, and the only solution must be sought within the framework of a peaceful negotiation process. Nevertheless, we have stressed that security is non-negotiable, and discussions about baseless, unilateral concessions are unacceptable. I remind the dictator of Baku that both he and his father have repeatedly agreed to the proposed solutions that enshrine the right of the people of Artsakh to self-determination, and this is also non-negotiable.

It is evident that the greatest threat to the course and effectiveness of negotiations is Azerbaijan's aggressive stance, provocative actions, anti-Armenian policies, and militaristic statements. Work around the negotiation process must begin by emphasizing the exclusion of force and the threat of force, as well as with the clear goal of changing the existing anti-Armenian sentiments in Azerbaijan.

The Armenian sides have repeatedly emphasized that peaceful negotiations are the only alternative. However, if Aliyev's statements are followed by provocative actions towards the borders of Armenia or Artsakh, then the response from the Armenian side will be more than adequate. Aliyev would do well to learn from the lessons of the Tavush incidents and return to the negotiating table to continue discussions.”