Do Not Sign Any Document That Proposes the Change of Artsakh's Status: Rally Participants

Participants of the ongoing rally in Stepanakert have made a statement, published by Artsakhpress:

“We, the residents of the Republic of Artsakh, participants of the popular rally taking place in the Renaissance Square of Stepanakert, declare that we will defend the sovereignty and statehood of the Republic of Artsakh. 31 years ago, we proclaimed independence and exercised our right to self-determination in full accordance with international law and Soviet legislation. These decisions are enshrined in the 'Declaration of Independence of the Republic of Artsakh' and the results of the popular referendum.

Azerbaijan continues to carry out the genocide of the Armenian people, which started over a century ago by Turkey. The genocidal policy against the Armenians of Artsakh has been carried out by Azerbaijan even during the Soviet regime, and continued throughout the years following the collapse of the USSR. It persists today, evidenced by recent events where an armed invasion occurred into the territory of the Republic of Armenia, accompanied by crimes against humanity, such as mocking the bodies of the dead, beheading captives, and other inhumane manifestations of hatred.

Azerbaijan, without hiding its intentions to eliminate Armenians and the Armenian statehood, is perpetrating the genocide of Armenians, involving regional and international forces in its criminal acts. Only the people of Artsakh have the right to determine their fate.

Armenia has been the guarantor of the security of Artsakh and has been mediating in the negotiations to resolve the conflict between Azerbaijan and Artsakh throughout all the years following the collapse of the USSR. However, the leadership of Armenia has no right to sign any document that proposes changes to the existing status of Artsakh. Any document of this nature is illegitimate and has no legal force.

Recognize the independence of Artsakh and do not participate in the genocide of Armenians carried out by Azerbaijan and its allies.”