Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan in the US: Peace Is the Only Path to Security and Prosperity

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is firmly stating that according to him real independence, prosperity, and security are impossible without peace. In a recent interview with Ambassador John Herbst, senior director of the Atlantic Council's Eurasia Center, Pashinyan stressed the importance of achieving a peaceful resolution with Azerbaijan and emphasized that peace is the key to a stable future for Armenia and the wider region.

During his speech at the Atlantic Council, Pashinyan explained why he remains committed to securing peace with Azerbaijan despite ongoing challenges. He noted that discussions are taking place within Armenia about the best ways to ensure national security. However, he argued that the most reliable tool for achieving security is peace itself. According to Pashinyan, prosperity also depends on peace, as a nation cannot thrive economically or socially in a state of conflict.

Furthermore, Pashinyan argued that democracy is difficult to sustain in a war environment. He acknowledged that due to historical factors, many Armenians remain skeptical about the peace agenda. However, he believes that instead of focusing on optimism or pessimism, the approach should be proactive, creative, and determined. He stressed that while there is no absolute guarantee of success, persistence, innovation, and unwavering commitment are the best ways to achieve the desired outcome.

The Armenian PM also mentioned that peace would benefit not just Armenia, but the entire region and the global community. By working towards peace, Armenia is making a contribution to world stability. Pashinyan expressed hope that international partners would recognize this effort and support Armenia in its peace-building initiatives.

Progress and Challenges in Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Talks

One of the unresolved issues in the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace negotiations involves the deployment of third-party forces along the border. Azerbaijan has proposed a ban on such deployments, citing the European civilian monitoring mission as a reason. Armenia has acknowledged Azerbaijan’s position and suggested that this rule should only apply to sections of the border that have been officially delimited. Pashinyan revealed that Armenia has submitted its proposal in writing and is waiting for Azerbaijan’s response.

Another key issue in the negotiations is the withdrawal of legal cases filed by both countries in international courts. Azerbaijan has suggested that both nations should drop their lawsuits against each other. Armenia is not opposed to this idea but has proposed an additional condition: that the issues covered in these lawsuits should not be brought up in future bilateral discussions. Pashinyan warned that without this agreement, one side could withdraw a case from an international court only to use it as a bargaining tool in negotiations, potentially leading to further conflict. Instead, Armenia is advocating for a fresh start in relations with Azerbaijan, with no lingering disputes from the past.

Despite these challenges, significant progress has been made in drafting the peace treaty. Pashinyan confirmed that Armenia and Azerbaijan have agreed to recognize each other’s territorial integrity based on the borders of Soviet Armenia and Soviet Azerbaijan. Both countries have also agreed not to have territorial claims against each other now or in the future. According to Pashinyan, this agreement forms the foundation of lasting peace. He believes that achieving peace is now within reach, requiring only the political will to finalize and sign the treaty.

Ongoing Dialogue with Turkey

In addition to negotiations with Azerbaijan, Armenia is actively engaged in dialogue with Turkey. According to Pashinyan, Armenia and Turkey have never had such frequent and open communication as they do now. Meetings between their foreign ministers and other representatives have been continuous, and both sides are working diligently to improve relations.

Pashinyan emphasized that there are no major obstacles preventing further progress in Armenia-Turkey relations. However, some final steps still need to be taken to achieve tangible results. Despite these remaining challenges, the Armenian prime minister expressed confidence that a positive outcome will be reached soon. Leaving us wondering if this includes the recognition of the Armenian Genocide?

A Call for International Support

As Armenia works towards peace, Pashinyan called on the international community to recognize and support the process. He emphasized that peace is not just Armenia’s responsibility to its citizens but also a commitment to regional and global stability. Armenia seeks encouragement from its international partners and aims to ensure that all aspects of its intentions are understood clearly.