Statement by Gagik Baghunts, Acting Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Artsakh, regarding the European Parliament resolution of October 24:
The National Assembly of the Republic of Artsakh welcomes the resolution adopted by the European Parliament on October 24, 2024. This resolution, titled “Regarding Violations of Human Rights and International Law in Azerbaijan and Relations with Armenia,” seeks to highlight the catastrophic human rights situation within Azerbaijan, the degradation of international law, and the aggressive stance directed at the entire region, particularly toward Armenia.
We deeply appreciate the members of the European Parliament for their clear stance on restoring the rights of the people of Artsakh. It is crucial that the resolution emphasizes the need to enforce decisions by international courts, promote direct dialogue with representatives of the Artsakh people, ensure our safe and dignified return, secure the release of Armenian prisoners of war and political detainees held in Azerbaijan, and safeguard our property and cultural heritage.
The unified and secure return of the Artsakh people to their homeland is essential to establishing lasting peace in the region, achievable through direct negotiations between Azerbaijan and Artsakh under international protection.
The National Assembly of Artsakh urges the European Union to take practical and direct steps to protect human rights in the region and uphold the fundamental rights of the Artsakh people. To this end, it is crucial to establish effective international mechanisms that will guarantee a productive dialogue, collective return, safe and dignified living conditions, and the realization of other fundamental rights.
October 25, 2024