Hakob Arshakyan, Vice President of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia, delivered a statement at the General Debate of 148th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly, Geneva, 24-27 March 2024. Armenian Parliament’s press handout says it is entitled “Parliamentary diplomacy: Building bridges for peace and understanding”.
In particular, Arshakyan said:
“Before I start, We should condemn the terrorist attack in Moscow and extend our condolences to the victims' families. Wishing a speedy recovery to the injured. This highlights the need for unity against extremism to preserve peace and security.
Parliamentary diplomacy represents a powerful tool for countries to engage in global affairs, shape foreign policy, and foster peaceful international relations.
Armenia remains dedicated to peace and stability in the South Caucasus region, prepared to undertake further efforts toward this goal.
Constructive negotiations with Azerbaijan are ongoing, aimed at reaching a peace agreement, border delimitation, and unblocking transport communications. These efforts are guided by principles previously discussed and approved by the leaders of both countries.
Number one: Armenia and Azerbaijan recognize each other's territorial integrity on the basis of the 1991 Alma-Ata declaration.
Number two: the Alma-Ata Declaration is the political basis for the delimitation process. According to the Alma-Ata Declaration, the newly independent, former USSR republics, including Armenia and Azerbaijan, accepted that the former Soviet administrative borders between them are recognized as interstate borders.
Number three: regional communications should be unblocked with respect to the sovereignty and jurisdiction of transit countries, based on the principle of equality and reciprocity. Armenia's views on this topic are summеd up in the "Crossroads of Peace" project.
The "Crossroads of Peace" initiative will facilitate communication between the two states, businesses, people, and international stakeholders. This approach is vital for fostering peace, prosperity, and trust between the two countries and in the wider region.
In conclusion, I'm pleased to announce that Armenia will host the 10th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians in September 2024. I extend a warm invitation to all young MPs to participate in this forum and experience the hospitality of Yerevan and People of Armenia”.
