POLITICS
Elchin Amirbayov: Pashinyan openly acknowledged he has no territorial claims against Azerbaijan
31.07.2024 [15:58]
A+ A-
Baku, July 31, AZERTAC
“Regarding the difficulty Pashinyan faces with constitutional amendments, we should not forget that the most challenging part has already been addressed. He has openly acknowledged that he has no territorial claims against Azerbaijan, even specifying the number of square meters and kilometers he recognizes as part of our country,” said Elchin Amirbayov, Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on special assignments, during a debate at the Hudson Institute.
“He has also, through his foreign minister, agreed to the five fundamental principles that form the basis of the draft peace agreement. One of these principles is mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, and the abandonment of any current or future territorial claims. The most challenging part of conveying this message has been accomplished by him. What is now expected is for him to align his rhetoric and political statements with the real situation on the ground. Simply saying that ‘it will be difficult for me to address this issue due to challenges back home’ is a poor consolation. We expect him to uphold his official position as Prime Minister: that Karabakh is part of Azerbaijan`s internationally recognized territory, Armenia has no claims on it, and that they are prepared to normalize relations with Azerbaijan and its other neighbors based on this commitment. What is needed is just an amendment to address the underlying reason for this rivalry. Imagine if we proceed and sign it, and then, after some time, a new government of Armenia comes to power and claims that the agreement signed by the previous prime minister is not legitimate, and contradicts the letter and spirit of the constitution, and holds no supreme legal force according to the Armenian constitution. This means we would leave the door open for future revanchist sentiments and rhetoric, which we see gaining more traction in Armenia today. That`s why I believe this issue cannot not be ignored by anyone who truly wishes for peace,” Elchin Amirbayov emphasized.
Malahat Najafova
Special correspondent
