Armenia Seeks EU Assistance for Refugees from Artsakh: Italian Government

Armenia has reached out to the European Union for assistance to support refugees from Artsakh, the Italian Prime Minister's office reported on Saturday, as stated by Reuters.

The request for help primarily concerns essential supplies and sanitary-hygienic items, as noted in the statement from the Italian Prime Minister's office.

The message also stated that Rome is "working towards promoting stability in the region." The EU's external action service has issued a statement indicating that large numbers of Armenians from Artsakh are fleeing following military actions by Azerbaijan on September 19 and 20, as well as the blockade of the Lachin corridor that lasted several months.

These individuals are leaving their homes and finding refuge in Armenia. This information was included in the statement from the EU's external action service.

“It is imperative to urgently provide permanent, unobstructed humanitarian aid to those in need, both in Artsakh and for those who have fled. The European Union supports the work of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which assists in the urgent evacuation of the wounded and patients, as well as providing emergency assistance on the ground.”

The European Commission has announced a provision of an additional humanitarian aid package worth 5 million euros to assist those displaced from Artsakh and those who are vulnerable within the region.

The EU and its member states are prepared to offer further humanitarian assistance. Azerbaijan bears responsibility for ensuring the rights and safety of the Armenians in Artsakh, including their right to live with dignity in their homes without fear or discrimination, as well as the right of displaced persons to return.

It is crucial for the UN mission to have access to the region in the coming days. The EU has taken note of the Azerbaijani authorities' announcement regarding the registration process of residents of Armenia through a special portal. The EU will continue to closely monitor the developments on the ground.