Artsakh NA speaker hails Swiss parliament initiative

PanARMENIAN.Net - The speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Artsakh, Gagik Baghunts, expressed gratitude to the Swiss parliament for its principled stance and attention to the people of Artsakh. This was stated in his official announcement.

He emphasized that such a united and principled stance reflects Switzerland’s commitment to international law and humanitarian values.

"On behalf of the people of Artsakh, we express our deep gratitude and highly appreciate the adoption of the resolution No. 24.4259, titled 'Peace Forum for Nagorno-Karabakh: Ensuring the Possibility of Armenian Return,' by the upper chamber of the Swiss Federal Assembly, the Council of Cantons, on March 18, 2025.

It is of particular significance to us that both chambers of the Swiss parliament supported this important initiative—first the National Council on December 17, 2024, and now the Council of Cantons. Such unity and principled positioning reaffirm Switzerland's commitment to international law and humanitarian principles.

We deeply appreciate the Swiss parliament’s call for the creation of a separate platform for dialogue between representatives of Artsakh and Azerbaijan. The right to a safe, collective, and dignified return for the forcibly displaced people of Artsakh is an integral part of international law, as repeatedly confirmed by various international bodies, including the International Court of Justice and the European Parliament resolutions.

We hope that the Swiss Federal Council will take immediate steps to implement this historic decision of the Council of Cantons.

We reaffirm our readiness to support all efforts aimed at ensuring the rights and security of the people of Artsakh, as well as establishing a stable and just peace in the region.

Once again, we extend our deep gratitude to the Swiss parliament for its principled stance, humanitarian approach, and attention to the suffering and needs of the people of Artsakh," the statement reads.

*The Council of Cantons has adopted resolution No. 24.4259, titled 'Peace Forum for Nagorno-Karabakh: Ensuring the Possibility of Armenian Return.' In the 46-member chamber, 29 deputies voted in favor, while 12 opposed. Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and several lawmakers attempted to block the resolution, arguing it contradicts international law since Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians are not a subject of international law. Cassis stated that Baku and Yerevan would soon sign a peace treaty, making such an initiative unnecessary.

However, supporters of the resolution countered that Switzerland has proven its effectiveness as a neutral mediator. They stressed that ensuring dialogue between representatives of Azerbaijan and Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians could facilitate the safe and organized return of the displaced population.*