Andranik Kocharyan on Withdrawal of Azerbaijani Forces from Ishkhanasar

Azerbaijani forces must withdraw from the territory of the Republic of Armenia, sooner or later; the sooner, the better. This was stated by Andranik Kocharyan, the chairman of the Security and Defense Committee, during a discussion in parliament regarding the withdrawal of Azerbaijani troops from Ishkhanasar.

Kocharyan mentioned that it would be appropriate to direct questions to the Deputy Minister of Defense; however, there are certain matters that should be approached with caution. “Allow me to also tread carefully, as there are things one should sometimes avoid discussing,” he said.

When asked about the agreements that led to the Azerbaijani forces withdrawing from Ishkhanasar, Kocharyan reiterated that they must leave Armenian sovereign territory: “The sooner, the better,” he emphasized, adding that the committees are currently working, and it is essential for them to accurately understand and serve the interests of our country.

Kocharyan noted that the trilateral meeting held in Sochi on November 26 provided a positive perception, although he could not comment on how the adversary is operationalizing this positive perception or at what pace. He refrained from confirming the reports that the Azerbaijani armed forces are withdrawing, but journalists countered that local mayors have already confirmed this information.

“There is information regarding Ishkhanasar, but let’s not discuss it; let our military manage the existing situation. Foreign armed forces cannot be present in the territory of Armenia,” Kocharyan asserted, acknowledging that Azerbaijani troops are set to withdraw from Ishkhanasar while not ruling out the possibility of withdrawals from other areas as well. He reminded that a phase of demarcation and delimitation is beginning.

“This can be resolved calmly and without shooting at each other. The Russian side has probably proposed something that neutralizes the atmosphere of tension,” Kocharyan stated, reiterating that foreign armed forces cannot be on Armenian sovereign territory without the approval of the Republic of Armenia. In response to the observation that Azerbaijani troops have entered Armenian territory since May and have not withdrawn, Kocharyan countered, “We too have entered many places and are not leaving; excuse me.”