The Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia, Alen Simonyan, delivered a speech at the “Together for Peace and Democracy” panel discussion. He said in particular:
“Esteemed colleagues,
Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Distinguished guests,
It is a great honor for me to host high-ranking representatives of the parliaments of Armenia’s friendly countries within the framework of one standard format. In this regard, I would like to express special gratitude to the Speaker of the Estonian Parliament, my good friend Mr. Lauri Hussar, for putting forward the idea of organizing a meeting in Armenia within the framework of the Nordic-Baltic Eight cooperation format. At the same time, as the coordinating country of the format, I express my gratitude to the Latvian side, led by the Speaker of the Latvian Parliament, Ms. Daiga Mierinja. We are very grateful to all countries for undertaking the preparatory work for the event. I am glad that we have built an intense political dialogue and partnership. Independence, sovereignty, and democracy are the values that bring like-minded countries closer together. Peoples.
Armenia greatly appreciates the support of its friends on the path full of obstacles in this period of expansionist ambitions. Geopolitical developments, such as the war in Ukraine and elsewhere, are a serious signal that democracy is under great threat worldwide. In this regard, the united defense of universal human values and active efforts to establish lasting peace and stability across the globe is the best means of combating threats and challenges.
Despite all the security threats that Armenia has faced in recent years, we are resolute in advancing the European integration process and expect that a new agenda for the Armenia-EU partnership will be signed soon.
I emphasize the importance of launching the visa liberalization process, a clear political message to the Armenian people.
I attach great importance to Armenia-EU cooperation within the framework of the “European Peace Facility,” which will certainly contribute to Armenia’s development, increasing resilience, and strengthening the logistical capabilities for the protection of civilians in crisis situations.
The deployment of the European Union Monitoring Mission has positively impacted ensuring security, especially in the context of the hostile rhetoric we are witnessing.
I cannot but mention the significant role of the Eastern Partnership in Armenia-EU relations, which has paved the way for us to strengthen and deepen our cooperation with the European Union.
Despite security challenges, Armenia seeks to normalize relations with its neighbors and establish sustainable regional peace.
Armenia’s vision is expressed in the “Crossroads of Peace” initiative presented by the government. This initiative aims to unblock all regional transport infrastructure based on the principles of sovereignty, equality, territorial integrity, and reciprocity.
A peaceful and democratic South Caucasus is important not only for Armenia and the entire region but also for the EU and wider Europe. We believe that it can become part of the “Global Gateway.”
On the way to achieving peace, the resolution of all humanitarian issues is of vital importance, of which the urgent and safe return of Armenian prisoners of war is a priority.
Although the peace treaty has not yet been signed, most of the articles under discussion have been agreed upon. We have offered the Azerbaijani side mutually acceptable solutions that will allow it to not only sign the document and move forward but also provide fundamental and complete answers to the existing problems. Unfortunately, the Armenian side has not yet responded.
Summing up my speech, I want to state that peace and democracy guarantee sustainable development and prosperity.
I wish you fruitful work.
And thank you once again.
