This Nightmare is Not One from Which We Can Miraculously Wake Up: Allen Simonian

The President of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia, Allen Simonian, delivered a speech at the European Conference of Parliamentary Presidents on the theme of ‘Protection of Democracy’.

“Dear President of the Conference, esteemed Secretary-General, distinguished colleagues, ladies and gentlemen,

It is a privilege for me to speak in this hall, which has worked for more than seven decades towards uniting Europe around a universal value system, inspired by a deep belief in the value of human dignity.

Dear ladies and gentlemen, I stand here not only as a representative of the Republic of Armenia, but also as one who deeply believes in the power of democracy. This conviction prompts me to reflect on current realities.

The madness of our times must be viewed with absolute clarity—the storm is not approaching; it is already here. Chaos is veiled in the fog of double-speak. Fact is fiction, ally is enemy, victim is aggressor, truth is deception, the innocent is guilty.

So many precious things have turned to ashes. The pillars of liberalism are cracking, and the sacred flame of freedom is extinguishing. Democracy is at risk.

This nightmare is not one from which we can miraculously wake up. Europe, as a cradle of enlightenment, must stand up again to defend freedom. The resolve to act must counter the frenzy of destruction. Only through unified and uncompromising efforts can the fragile flower of democracy bloom.

Armenia, for its part, remains committed to the path of democratization. For us, democracy is not just a system of governance; it is the foundation of our national identity and security, the driving force of our aspirations.

The Velvet Revolution of 2018 was a turning point in our history. It set Armenia on the path of transparent elections, independent institutions, and a government free of corruption. Our goal is clear—to build an open and accountable system where every citizen feels powerful and secure.

To achieve this goal, we have initiated ambitious reforms with the support of the Council of Europe. The Council of Europe’s action plan is an important tool for strengthening public trust in our institutions and aligning them with European standards. Judicial independence, freedom of the press, and the fight against corruption continue to remain at the heart of our agenda.

In this context, we particularly value the Council of Europe’s high assessments regarding the progress Armenia has made toward establishing sustainable democracy.

I would also like to address the peace process with Azerbaijan. Undoubtedly, you are aware that Armenia and Azerbaijan have fully agreed on the text of the peace treaty. We welcome this progress and believe that peaceful coexistence and regional cooperation are the best guarantees of security and well-being.

Our initiative, the ‘Peace Crossroad’, aims to reactivate regional communications and promote economic development based on mutual respect and sovereignty.

However, I must note that humanitarian issues continue to remain unresolved. Armenian prisoners of war and civilians in Azerbaijan are subjected to prolonged detention, inhumane treatment, and fabricated trials. The immediate release of prisoners is a priority issue.

Moreover, I am concerned about Azerbaijan’s recent false statements regarding military operations attributed to Armenia, which exacerbate the situation at the border. In this context, we emphasize the importance of confidence-building measures, such as the EU’s civilian mission and arms control mechanisms.

Most of the issues requiring resolution are either already included in the agreement or are being addressed through the working group established within its framework. Armenia is ready to agree with Azerbaijan on the timeline and location for the signing of the treaty. We hope that Azerbaijan shares our desire to enter a new era.

Dear colleagues, the 25th anniversary of Armenia’s membership in the Council of Europe is approaching. On this occasion, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the democratic values we will never cease to protect. We are steadfast on this path.”