Tigran Avinyan Receives ICRC Delegation to Discuss Prisoner Exchanges and Missing Persons

On December 2, Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinyan received a delegation from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), led by Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia Martin Schuepp.

Thanking for the reception, Martin Schuepp noted that an effective dialogue has been established between the ICRC and Armenia. He emphasized the importance of cooperation with the inter-agency commission dealing with issues related to prisoners, hostages, and missing persons.

Issues regarding the exchange of prisoners, as well as the efforts to find missing persons and the remains of the deceased, were discussed. The Deputy Prime Minister stated that everything must be done to expedite this process as much as possible.

Tigran Avinyan mentioned that the Armenian side proposes to adopt the principle of “all for all” in the prisoner exchange process. Additionally, it is suggested to create a mechanism whereby, in the event of new prisoners being discovered, each side commits to return them without preconditions.

The parties also addressed the humanitarian situation in Artsakh and the necessary support for individuals affected by military operations.