Azerbaijan Continues to Make Belligerent Statements Aimed at Undermining Regional Peace: Mirzoyan

Ararat Mirzoyan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, made a statement for the press following a meeting with his Polish counterpart Zbigniew Rau. He noted, "We exchanged views on issues related to the Armenia-EU partnership agenda. We addressed the implementation of the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement between Armenia and the European Union, as well as steps to further enhance the effectiveness of the Eastern Partnership. In this context, Poland, as one of the initiators of the Eastern Partnership, plays a crucial role for us, and we expect further expansion of cooperation in this direction.

"Of course, the focus of our discussions today was on several issues regarding regional stability and security. We also touched upon our cooperation within the framework of the OSCE, where Poland currently holds the presidency. I presented Mr. Rau with a detailed account of Armenia's position regarding the processes aimed at establishing regional peace and stability.

"I emphasized the key role of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairmanship in promoting a peaceful process aimed at a comprehensive and lasting resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the normalization of relations with Azerbaijan.

"Esteemed attendees, I must sadly note that despite Armenia's exerted efforts, we continue to face Azerbaijan's belligerent and supremacist statements, which are directed at undermining regional stability and peace.

"Moreover, by violating norms of international humanitarian law and the trilateral statements of November 9, Azerbaijan continues to hold Armenian prisoners of war and civilians hostage, using them as instruments for political manipulation. In this regard, it is crucial for the international community, including the OSCE presidency, to continue its support in adhering to human rights and humanitarian principles for addressing this issue.

"It is also unacceptable the policy conducted by the Azerbaijani leadership aimed at the destruction, desecration, and distortion of the Armenian historical, cultural, and religious heritage in the territories under Azerbaijani control. In this regard, we expect a clear, targeted, and continuous response from the international community, emphasizing the urgent need for the involvement of relevant international organizations in Nagorno-Karabakh.

"Once again, I want to emphasize that opening an era of peaceful development for Armenia and the region is our principle and strategy, and we hope that the OSCE, along with the institution of the OSCE Chairmanship, will use the mechanisms available in its toolkit to create conditions for a constructive atmosphere and comprehensive peace.

"I will conclude my remarks here. Dear Mr. Rau, thank you once again for your warm welcome and productive discussions."