Armen Sarkissian Sends Letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to Ensure Return of Prisoners

The President of the Republic of Armenia, Armen Sarkissian, has sent a letter to the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres.

“The year 2020 was a difficult and challenging year for all of us. However, it was significantly more severe for Armenia due to the war unleashed by Azerbaijan against Artsakh on September 27, with active support and involvement from Turkey. Despite your call for a global ceasefire during the COVID-19 pandemic and statements condemning the continued violence in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone, and in light of the periodic calls from the international community for an immediate end to the war, Azerbaijan's military-political leadership deliberately targeted the civilian population and infrastructure, grossly violating human rights and the norms of international humanitarian law. All of this led to the loss of thousands of young lives, the disability of many, the displacement of the population, and the destruction of Armenian historical and cultural heritage.

During and after the war, Armenian servicemen and civilians have been captured and subjected to torture and inhumane treatment by Azerbaijan. According to the trilateral statement on ceasefire made on November 9, 2020, the Republic of Armenia transferred all prisoners of war to Azerbaijan. However, it is of utmost importance that the exchange of all prisoners of war and civilians should be conducted based on the principle of 'all for all', which is being disregarded by Azerbaijan. Currently, Azerbaijan continues to deny and obstruct the return of detained civilians and prisoners of war, grossly violating human rights and international humanitarian law.

Armenia expects support from the international partners regarding the prompt return of all captives. I appeal to you and the United Nations to take all necessary measures in accordance with international humanitarian law to ensure the immediate release and safe return of prisoners of war,” the President's message states.