Pashinyan is One of Those Leaders Who Never Says 'Forward', But Says 'Follow Me': Hovikaghazaryan

The Tavush region, in essence, should serve as a model for all 'wrinkles' in the Armenian-Azerbaijani border. This was stated by Hovik Aghazaryan, a member of the ruling party, in an interview with Tert.am, referring to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's remarks during his visit to Tavush, where he told residents that there shouldn’t be a frontline, but rather a boundary.

“If we can come to a common understanding with Azerbaijan and resolve the issues in a mutually acceptable way, then the process will proceed more smoothly in the future and it will become more tangible to bring the peace process to completion,” noted the MP.

Addressing the acceptable option for both sides, Aghazaryan pointed out that the most apparent solution, which should not pose a problem, is the return of four settlements that were once part of Soviet Azerbaijan back to Azerbaijan. A significant piece of land that was previously located in Azerbaijan is now within our territory, and another large area that belonged to the Armenian Soviet Republic is now under Azerbaijan's control. These land parcels should be exchanged.

“This can create a stable situation, and military units can be exchanged with border guarding functions. We will face certain difficulties in terms of communication, but they are solvable issues and easier than the problems we have in our relations with Azerbaijan. In this part of Tavush, the Azerbaijani side will approach the issue with the mindset that we have,” emphasized Hovik Aghazaryan.

The MP noted that the issue is so simple and evident that proposing another solution and pursuing it would be very difficult to explain to the international community. He added that under the attention of the international community, there is a real opportunity to resolve the Armenian-Azerbaijani issue regarding demarcation and delimitation in the Tavush area.

“Pashinyan’s strength lies in the fact that he is one of those leaders who never says ‘Forward,’ he always says ‘Follow Me.’ He takes the hits on himself, bears the burden and engages with the people. By being able to listen, Pashinyan can introduce clarifications in discussions with the public on various issues,” concluded Hovik Aghazaryan.