Pashinyan Welcomes OSCE Chairperson Ann Linde

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan received a delegation led by Ann Linde, the Swedish Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairperson of the OSCE. The meeting began with a private conversation between the Prime Minister and Ms. Linde, followed by an expanded session.

The Prime Minister welcomed the OSCE Chairperson's visit to Armenia and wished her a productive tenure in this responsible position. Nikol Pashinyan emphasized the importance of close cooperation with the OSCE in ensuring stability and security.

He highlighted that the resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict can only occur within the framework of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairmanship, stressing the need to activate the group's work for the resumption of the peace process and comprehensive resolution of the issue. In this context, the Prime Minister underscored the necessity of clarifying the status of Nagorno-Karabakh and realizing the right to self-determination for the people of Artsakh.

Pashinyan noted that sustainable stability and long-lasting peace in the region can only be established through constructive efforts and by creating the appropriate environment, although the ongoing aggressive and destructive statements from the President of Azerbaijan do not contribute to this goal.

The Prime Minister pointed out that many issues remain unresolved, including the status of Nagorno-Karabakh, humanitarian problems, the rights of Artsakh residents, and the protection of cultural heritage identity, emphasizing the vital role of the OSCE in this context.

PM Pashinyan reaffirmed that the return of prisoners of war remains a top priority, stressing that Armenia's understanding is that point 8 of the November 9 statement must be implemented without preconditions. However, Azerbaijan continues to hold Armenian prisoners of war and civilians in hostage situations.

As OSCE Chairperson, Ann Linde highlighted the importance of the work done by the Minsk Group co-chairs and her personal representative aimed at achieving long-term sustainable solutions and establishing peace. She stated that the OSCE and the international community play an essential role in addressing the current situation and assisting the parties in finding ways to resolve the issues at hand.

Simultaneously, the OSCE Chairperson emphasized the importance of respecting international humanitarian law and addressing humanitarian issues, which would contribute to creating a climate of mutual trust.

During the meeting, the parties discussed other issues related to the regional situation and future cooperation.