Swiss activists support return of displaced Artsakh residents

PanARMENIAN.Net - Representatives of Swiss non-governmental organizations met with displaced Artsakh residents in Yerevan, expressing their commitment to support their return process. Speaking at Freedom Square, they emphasized their intent to raise awareness in Switzerland about the situation in Armenia and Artsakh.

“We talk about Armenia and Artsakh, even if it's not widely discussed in Switzerland,” they told reporters, as reported by Aravot.am .

The activists noted that they had previously met with Bishop Bagrat and were now visiting Artsakh residents to hear their stories firsthand.

They shared that during their visits to various locations, people often ask about the condition of Artsakh residents and how they can help.

“People here are forced to live in difficult conditions, which has touched our hearts. A request has been submitted to the Swiss government to convene a roundtable discussion on the return of Artsakh residents. We don't yet know what will come of this initiative, but we will keep you informed. We want to help Armenia,” they stated.

The Swiss Council of States has adopted project No. 24.4259 titled “Peace Forum for Nagorno-Karabakh: Ensuring the Possibility of Return for Armenians.” Out of 46 members, 29 voted in favor, and 12 opposed. During the session, Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and several parliamentarians attempted to prevent the resolution's adoption, arguing that it contradicts international law, as Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh are not subjects of international law. Cassis noted that Baku and Yerevan are expected to sign a peace agreement soon, rendering such initiatives unnecessary.

However, supporters of the resolution countered that Switzerland has proven effective as a neutral mediator. They stressed that facilitating dialogue between Azerbaijani authorities and representatives of Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians could contribute to the safe and organized return of forcibly displaced individuals.