Armenian MPs see Swiss-led peace forum as constructive sign

PanARMENIAN.Net - The opposition Armenia faction in the National Assembly has expressed gratitude to the Swiss Federal Assembly’s National Council and Council of States for adopting a resolution titled “Peace Forum for Nagorno-Karabakh: The Possibility of Armenian Return.”

The statement highlights that Switzerland's initiative to organize a dialogue platform is a sign of hope and a model of constructive engagement, which the faction is ready to actively support.

“This timely and principled decision reflects Switzerland’s long-standing commitment to international law, universal humanitarian values, and inclusive diplomacy,” the faction emphasized.

It also underscored the importance of establishing a dedicated forum to foster dialogue between representatives of Nagorno-Karabakh and Azerbaijan. “Switzerland’s strong emphasis on ensuring the collective return of Armenians displaced from their homeland and the realization of other fundamental rights is of great importance,” the statement reads.

The faction also praised the willingness of both chambers of the Swiss parliament and the potential involvement of the Federal Council in implementing the initiative.

“We deeply appreciate the readiness of both chambers of the Swiss Parliament to support and implement this vital initiative and welcome the Federal Council’s anticipated role in its realization. The forced displacement of the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh—accompanied by military operations aimed at ethnic cleansing—has created not only a severe humanitarian crisis but also a serious moral and legal challenge for the international community,” the faction stated.

“Switzerland’s leadership in organizing a dialogue forum is a sign of hope and a model of constructive involvement. We are ready to actively support this initiative and closely collaborate with our Swiss partners and all stakeholders to ensure the forum’s effectiveness and contribute to the establishment of lasting and just peace in the South Caucasus,” the statement concluded.

Switzerland’s Council of States adopted project №24.4259 titled “Peace Forum for Nagorno-Karabakh: Ensuring the Possibility of Armenian Return.” Out of 46 members, 29 voted in favor and 12 against. Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and several MPs had attempted to block the resolution, arguing that it contradicts international law, as Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh are not considered subjects under international law. Cassis claimed that Baku and Yerevan are close to signing a peace treaty, making such an initiative unnecessary. However, supporters of the resolution countered, stressing Switzerland’s proven neutrality and its potential to facilitate dialogue between Azerbaijani and Nagorno-Karabakh Armenian representatives, paving the way for a safe and organized return of the displaced.