Azerbaijan continues laying new claims to Yerevan - Armenian MP

ArmInfo.The RA NA delegation takes part in the ongoing Autumn Meeting of the Parliamentary  Assembly for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE PA) in Dublin.  The Head of the RA NA delegation, the Chair of the NA Standing Committee on Foreign Relations Sargis Khandanyan gave a speech at the  Assembly.

"Madam President,

One of the core mandates of the OSCE, particularly through its Minsk  Group co-chairmanship, has been to provide a viable framework for  conflict resolution between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Regrettably these  efforts were not sufficient for bringing lasting peace, and our  region has endured 30 years of war and destruction. The forced  displacement of Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh, the devastation of  Armenian cultural heritage, and the continuing issue of prisoners of  war reflect the harsh reality we face.

This Assembly has been a witness to all of these, serving as a  platform for the debates and arguments between Armenia and  Azerbaijan. But today, I am here with a desire to turn the page on  this long history of conflict. I come with a message of cautious  optimism - because peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan is not just a  distant hope; it is possible, and it is within our grasp.

Recently, Armenia and Azerbaijan signed a Regulation on Joint  Activity of the Commissions on the Delimitation of the State Border  between two countries, adopting the Alma -Ata Declaration as the  foundation for this delimitation process. Armenia's Constitutional  Court has confirmed that this regulation aligns fully with our  Constitution, and we expect parliamentary ratification in the coming  weeks.

What is now required is the next, decisive step: the signing of the  peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The leadership of  both countries has acknowledged that the draft agreement is nearly  finalized, and Armenia has taken the initiative by offering to sign  the already agreed-upon terms. This would serve as a crucial step  toward resolving the remaining contentious issues. As former Prime  Minister Bertie Ahern said earlier 'Peace is not an event, it's a  process.'

Furthermore, Armenia remains committed to discussing the modalities  for unblocking regional transport and economic communications, in  full respect of each country's sovereignty, jurisdiction, and  territorial integrity. We seek to transform our region from a theater  of conflict into a crossroads of peace.

Armenia stands ready for dialogue, yet we have seen a concerning lack  of political will from Azerbaijan.  Unfortunately, we continue to  face new claims, threats, and demands. But we cannot afford to let  this opportunity slip away.

This is why, dear colleagues, we look to you and your governments for  steadfast support. By maintaining your focus on the South Caucasus,  despite the challenges of global crises, you can help secure a  lasting and comprehensive peace.