Response from the Armenian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Regarding UNESCO’s Statement

The spokesperson for the Armenian Foreign Ministry addressed UNESCO’s statement. He noted, “I wouldn’t want to comment on the relationship between Azerbaijan and UNESCO; however, the content of the statement from the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry regarding the issue—which is nothing more than a propaganda attempt to shift blame—raises some concerns, necessitating a revisit of the historical context of the issue and a reaffirmation of the truth.

All previous attempts by UNESCO to engage with issues regarding cultural heritage in the context of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict have been undermined precisely by Azerbaijan. Let us remember that in connection with the barbaric destruction of the Khachkars in Old Jugha, UNESCO had expressed a willingness to visit the region at the request of the Armenian side, which was rejected by Azerbaijan.

Armenia and Artsakh have always prioritized the preservation of cultural heritage and have approached the cultural values of other peoples and religions with respect and care. Recent examples include the restoration of the Upper Mosque of Gohar Tekh in Shushi, Artsakh, in 2019. Unfortunately, such reciprocity is not evident from Azerbaijan, which has been fighting against the Armenian cultural presence in Artsakh and also in Azerbaijan for decades, including through the mass destruction of monuments.

The issue of cultural heritage preservation has assumed a crucial role in the current context of the Karabakh conflict, and this aspect has been reflected in the recent statements of both the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairmanship and the co-chairing countries, as well as the international community at large. Armenia welcomes and is ready to support the prompt implementation of a UNESCO fact-finding mission to Artsakh and surrounding areas, which will contribute to efforts for preserving cultural heritage in areas that have come under Azerbaijani control and to prevent possible negative developments,” said the spokesperson of the Armenian Foreign Ministry.

It should be noted that on December 21, the UNESCO secretariat publicly stated that the only remaining response regarding sending an expert mission to Nagorno-Karabakh and adjacent areas was from Azerbaijan, effectively pointing out its unconstructive approach. Following this, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry issued a statement accusing UNESCO of bias while also not forgetting to mention Armenia.