Vahe Enfiadjyan and Jonathan Lacôte Discuss Issues Related to the Return of Prisoners of War

On December 8, the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Armenia, Vahe Enfiadjyan, met with the Ambassador of the French Republic to Armenia, Jonathan Lacôte.

Welcoming the guest, Vahe Enfiadjyan expressed gratitude to the French authorities and the friendly people for their efforts during the war unleashed by the Turkish-Azerbaijani tandem on September 27, as well as for overcoming the situation created in the post-war period and striving to resolve the issue through peaceful negotiations.

He emphasized that the direct involvement of Turkey in military operations and the participation of mercenaries was a fact, yet unlike France, this reality was not adequately condemned by the civilized world in some instances. In this context, Vahe Enfiadjyan highly appreciated the adoption of the resolution regarding the recognition of the Republic of Artsakh by both chambers of the French Parliament. The Ambassador, in turn, noted that this is a message of solidarity towards Armenia and carries significant political importance.

In the process of resolving the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, the Deputy Speaker stressed the importance of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairmanship format, highlighting France's key role. Vahe Enfiadjyan noted that the issue is often framed as a territorial dispute; however, in reality, it is a struggle for self-determination and a matter concerning the realization of people's rights.

The Ambassador, referring to the importance of the statement signed on November 9, mentioned that not all issues were resolved with it, and in this regard, the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairmanship has important tasks ahead. This format, according to Jonathan Lacôte, provides the opportunity to speak with both sides.

According to the Ambassador, negotiations need to resume on issues not included in the statement, as the status of Nagorno-Karabakh has not been clarified; it is necessary to ensure the return of displaced persons, to provide a more stable status to the Lachin corridor, to consolidate the new border between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and to preserve Armenian historical, cultural, and spiritual heritage.

The Ambassador also addressed the issue of the return of prisoners of war. The parties reflected on the centuries-old ties and strong cooperation between the two peoples at various levels.