"The November 9 Document Was Not a Surrender": Ruben Rubinyan

The Republic of Armenia is not planning to discuss any surrender. Ruben Rubinyan, the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, stated in an interview with Azatutyun that he disagrees with the use of that term, which is often heard today, including in the context of the debates between former presidents. He emphasized that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Armenia are non-negotiable.

Azatutyun: Is it true what Ter-Petrosyan says, that the issue now is to find the least painful solution, that there is no other option and delaying would be worse?

Rubinyan: We need a solution that ensures lasting peace and secures the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Armenia. The government is working in that direction and is ready to do everything it can to reach such a solution. However, I see that the term 'surrender' is often used, including in the context of debates between former presidents. I completely disagree with the use of that term not only in the context of the November 9 declaration but in general regarding any solution. The November 9 document was, yes, a ceasefire under heavy conditions, but it was not a surrender, and the Republic of Armenia is not preparing to discuss any surrender. The Republic of Armenia will maintain both its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs; the focus is on finding solutions.

Azatutyun: In that case, what is Yerevan's red line regarding the solution?

Rubinyan: The sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Armenia are non-negotiable.

Azatutyun: Yes, but if a peace treaty is signed that does not mention Artsakh, Azerbaijan will say tomorrow, 'You signed this document; we will resolve our issues with the Artsakh Armenians.'

Rubinyan: That is why I say that the security and rights of the people of Artsakh must be addressed.

Azatutyun: No, I mean, without those guarantees, a peace treaty will not be signed—without ensuring the rights of the Armenians of Artsakh.

Rubinyan: If the purpose of a peace treaty is to establish lasting peace, it means that there must be appropriate guarantees regarding all its components, or not only regarding all its components but also regarding all components that could disrupt peace. We believe it would be logical for there to also be negotiations between representatives of Artsakh and Azerbaijan.

Azatutyun: Stepanakert-Baku.

Rubinyan: Yes.