In his opening remarks, Ayvazyan noted that issues related to both bilateral cooperation and partnership on multilateral platforms were addressed. In the context of bilateral relations, the intensity of interstate dialogue at all levels; including the highest level was emphasized.

“The active cooperation between the ministries and departments is also visible. We expect that as a result of the regular meetings of the intergovernmental commissions on military-technical cooperation, clear joint steps will be taken to positively improve cooperation, increase trade turnover and further expand cooperation,” he said.

The Acting Minister noted that the situation in Armenia after the statement of the leaders of Armenia, Russia and Azerbaijan on 9 November  last year aimed at ending the Azerbaijani-Turkish aggression and the deployment of Russian peacekeepers in Artsakh, whose presence played a huge role in preventing mass atrocities in Artsakh, was discussed in detail.

“We appreciate Russia’s efforts to implement the agreements, in which the issue of the return of prisoners of war remains very urgent. Thanks to those efforts, it was possible to repatriate some of the Armenian prisoners of war. At the same time, almost half a year after the cessation of hostilities, Azerbaijan, in violation of international humanitarian law, is violating the provisions of the Declaration, refusing to return all prisoners of war and hostages. In this context, I presented to my colleague the approaches of the international community, the calls to our neighboring country to fulfill its obligations,” he said.

Ayvazyan once again reaffirmed the position of the Armenian side that the Nagorno Karabakh conflict is far from being settled.

“Only through peaceful negotiations it is possible to achieve a result that will protect the rights of all, bring peace and stability to the South Caucasus. The basis for such a settlement should first of all be the determination of the status of Artsakh within the borders where the people of Artsakh have self-determined. The principles of the settlement have been developed by the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs. We are interested in strengthening and intensifying cooperation with this level of mediation endowed by the international community as a mediator,” he said.