Pashinyan Justifies Removal of Reference to Independence Declaration from Constitution

The Prime Minister of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, has presented his stance during a Facebook live broadcast, stating that the new text of the Constitution should not contain references to the Declaration of Independence. He clarified that the presence of such references signifies the continuation of the Nagorno-Karabakh movement, which in turn could lead to the resumption of conflict with Azerbaijan and make peace impossible.

According to the Prime Minister, this would also mean accepting narratives about "Western Armenia" or "Armenia from sea to sea," which practically would allow similar theses concerning "Western Azerbaijan" or "Eastern Turkey" to be discussed. Responding to opinions suggesting that this is a demand from Azerbaijan, Pashinyan emphasized that the issue should be viewed within the realm of Armenia's own desires.

He noted that the Nagorno-Karabakh movement is currently suspended at both official and popular levels, and that he and the "Civil Contract" party are ready to accept any other decision from the citizens, but are obliged to present their politically formed content. He stated that the "Civil Contract" is the only force declaring the necessity to abandon discussions surrounding the Declaration and focusing on the ideology of "Real Armenia" within Armenia's internationally recognized territory.

The Prime Minister also underscored that the army cannot be used beyond sovereign territory, except for peacekeeping missions. He assured that if citizens disagree with this concept, they can take advantage of upcoming elections or initiate a revolution. According to Pashinyan, the end of the Nagorno-Karabakh movement represents a historic opportunity for the region, allowing it to avoid sacrificing its own interests for the goals of others.

Regarding the displaced persons from Nagorno-Karabakh, he stated that the issue should be resolved by allowing people to settle in Armenia and free them from decades of being "political hostages." The Prime Minister rejected claims that the Constitution issue is being discussed with external actors, labeling it as an internal agenda. In conclusion, he mentioned that the Nagorno-Karabakh movement had previously been used to obstruct state consolidation and is incompatible with security. Pashinyan added that he is proud to raise taboo subjects, which has contributed to the existence of peace today.