Armenia Remains Committed to Obligations Undertaken During Accession to the Council of Europe

20 years ago on this day, the Republic of Armenia became a full member of the Council of Europe, the most valuable organization setting democratic standards on the European continent. By joining the Council of Europe, Armenia became part of the family of European states with which we share common history, values, and ideas, as well as a vision for the future of Europe, where fundamental rights and freedoms are protected without discrimination and distinction.

Armenia recognizes and appreciates the unique contribution of this organization, which has been and remains the main guardian of human rights and democracy in Europe for over 70 years. The two decades of Armenia's membership in the Council of Europe were a period of active participation and sincere cooperation. During this time, Armenia joined around 70 conventions and partial agreements of the Council of Europe, building strong legal bridges with the organization and its member states.

In 2013, Armenia held the presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe for six months, guiding collective efforts aimed at democratic processes. The democratic reform process remains a key area of Armenia-Council of Europe cooperation, and the organization, with its valuable expert potential, has become Armenia's reliable partner in this field.

The Council of Europe, its experts, monitoring bodies, and specialized institutions, such as the Venice Commission, have made significant contributions to our efforts to build a fair and democratic society, as well as to the protection of human rights and the rule of law.

Armenia remains committed to the obligations it undertook upon joining the Council of Europe, including the peaceful resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The recent war in Artsakh had a devastating impact on the fundamental rights and lives of the local population. We believe that the Council of Europe will accept these challenges and will take steps within its mandate aimed at the protection of the rights, freedoms, and dignity of all people living in conflict zones, including Artsakh.

On the occasion of our 20th anniversary of membership, I would like to reaffirm Armenia's loyalty and commitment to the principles and goals adopted by the Council of Europe.