ArmInfo. Armenian Deputy Foreign Minister Artak Apitonyan in Geneva took part in the 33rd International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.
As ArmInfo was informed in the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Apitonyan presented the approaches of Armenia on the need for coordinated actions of the international community in the face of humanitarian catastrophic situations, indicating the importance of ensuring the full realization of human rights regardless of the status of the country and territory, as well as early warning of genocides and mass crimes.
Speaking about the projects implemented by the ICRC in Armenia, the deputy minister, in particular, emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of the population of border regions and increasing the security of schools, as well as continuing to ensure control over the ceasefire during the period of agricultural work.
Apitonyan also touched upon the activities of the Red Cross Community of Armenia, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary next year. He also praised the efforts of Red Cross volunteers and missionaries to save thousands of lives during the genocide, set up orphanages, schools and provide assistance to those in need, urging the international community to spare no effort in assisting humanitarian actors, especially women.
The deputy minister also met with the Assistant High Commissioner for Protection, Gillian Triggs, with whom he discussed issues related to the first Global Refugee Forum to be held in Geneva from December 17 to 18. The interlocutors exchanged views on international cooperation on the agenda of issues related to refugees and displaced persons. The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs presented the positive experience and achievements of Armenia in the field of effective integration.
On the same day, Artak Apitonyan also met with David Chikvaidze, Chef de Cabinet to his third Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva. During the meeting, the parties noted the effective cooperation between Armenia and the UN office in Geneva.