On March 10, Khalil Shirgolami, the Iranian Ambassador to Armenia, stated in an interview with Shant TV that Iran considers Armenia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity to be of vital importance. "We have friendly relations with Armenia, based on mutual trust. We have always emphasized that Armenia's security is our security," Shirgolami stated, adding that Tehran takes this issue seriously and has repeatedly demonstrated its commitment. He emphasized that Iran does not want the ongoing war to cause even the slightest harm to Armenia.
Addressing economic cooperation, Shirgolami noted that bilateral ties between the two countries continue to function without major disruption. He stated that the border between Iran and Armenia remains open for both passenger and cargo transportation and that economic relations have not been significantly affected. "There is no significant impact on economic relations; they continue to be active and dynamic," he emphasized.
Commenting on the reported drone strike on Azerbaijan, which allegedly targeted Nakhchivan Airport and contributed to rising tensions between Iran and Azerbaijan, Shirgolami rejected claims that Iran had carried out such an attack. He stated that if Iran had made such a decision, the strike would have been precise, similar to previous attacks carried out against certain US bases and Israel. "Therefore, this incident was somewhat dubious, and Azerbaijan's response was disproportionate and unfriendly," Shirgolami stated. He added that Azerbaijan’s reaction prompted Iran’s military command to warn Baku to prevent the Israeli regime from launching attacks on Iran from Azerbaijani territory. According to him, in the event of such an attack, Iran would respond "without hesitation and with complete determination."
Shirgolami also addressed Israel’s presence in Azerbaijan, stating that Iran is aware of Israeli security activities there. At the same time, he emphasized that Tehran has warned countries in the region that the US and Israel must not use their territories or capabilities against Iran. "We want to maintain excellent, friendly and fraternal relations with all countries in the Caucasus region, and I see no reason for tension at this time," Shirgolami stated.
Speaking about the broader conflict, the ambassador emphasized that Iran is prepared to defend itself for as long as necessary. "As long as the aggression continues, the Iranian people and the Iranian Armed Forces will defend their country," Shirgolami stated.
Responding to questions about the origins of the current war, Shirgolami said that Iran had entered negotiations with a serious and sincere approach and continued them in the same manner. He noted that during the final stage of negotiations in Geneva, Iran presented what he described as a practical package of proposals aimed at achieving a comprehensive agreement. According to him, statements made by the American side following the talks also indicated that negotiations were progressing positively.
However, Shirgolami stated that the situation changed when former US President Donald Trump, influenced by "bellicose individuals in his entourage, including Netanyahu," became involved in what he described as a war of aggression. He emphasized that Iran had not ruled out the possibility of such developments and that its military forces had remained prepared. He also noted that Iran had warned that any territory used by the United States to launch strikes against Iran would become a legitimate target.
When asked whether Iran was prepared for a prolonged conflict, Shirgolami referred to the experience of what he described as a 12-day war. According to him, calls for "unconditional surrender" were later replaced by demands for a ceasefire after Israel allegedly faced strong resistance. He stated that Iran accepted the ceasefire at the time as a sign of goodwill but emphasized that a fragile truce cannot guarantee stability.
Shirgolami stated that Iran’s current position regarding a potential ceasefire requires several conditions. First, he emphasized that attacks against Iran must stop. Second, a clear legal and institutional ceasefire mechanism should be established, preferably within the UN and the UN Security Council, and reflected in a formal document. He added that the aggressor must be identified and condemned by the international community, and that the issue of compensation for damages caused to Iran must also be addressed.
"In response to further ceasefire signals, the Islamic Republic of Iran declares that it lacks confidence," Shirgolami stated, emphasizing that Iran would continue to defend itself if the attacks persist. "Iran is prepared to defend itself against this attack for as long as necessary. We have no time limit."
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Armenian Parliament Speaker Calls for End to Russian Border Guard Operations at Zvartnos Airport
In a recent revelation that has stirred the waters of international relations, Alen Simonyan, the Speaker at the Armenian Parliament, articulated a bold stance on the presence of Russian border guards at Armenia's Zvartnos airport. Responding to a journalist's inquiry, Simonyan clarified that he had not been part of any discussions concerning the matter but unequivocally expressed his lack of trust in the Russian border guards. His remarks underscore a growing sentiment within Armenia about the imperative of self-reliance in safeguarding national borders. This development comes amid a backdrop of heightened global tension, with President Zelensky of Ukraine making profound statements about breaking the myth of Russia's invincibility and updates on international diplomacy featuring prominently in the news.
Alen Simonyan's comments, though brief, carry significant weight in the context of Armenia's ongoing efforts to assert its sovereignty and security. The statement not only challenges the status quo of Russian border guards' operations at a key national gateway but also signals a potential shift in Armenia's approach to its security and diplomatic relations. The call to cease Russian border guard operations at Zvartnos airport is more than a logistical or administrative issue; it is a declaration of the desire for greater autonomy in matters of national security.
The broader geopolitical landscape provides a critical backdrop to Simonyan's remarks. With Ukraine's ongoing struggle against Russian aggression capturing global attention, the importance of national sovereignty and the capabilities of Russian military operations are under intense scrutiny. President Zelensky's assertion that Ukraine has shattered the myth of Russia's ability to swiftly capture any country resonates deeply in a region marked by complex alliances and historical tensions. Furthermore, the congratulatory message from Putin to Turkish President Erdogan on his 70th birthday and comments from Russian spokesperson Zakharova regarding France's stance on the Ukrainian Armed Forces highlight the intricate web of diplomatic relations affecting the region.
The implications of Simonyan's call for the cessation of Russian border guards at Zvartnos airport extend beyond Armenia's borders. It raises questions about the future of Armenia-Russia relations, the balance of power in the region, and the ongoing efforts for nations to assert their sovereignty in the face of larger geopolitical forces. As Armenia navigates these complex waters, the international community watches closely, understanding that the outcomes here could influence broader regional dynamics and the global conversation about sovereignty, security, and the role of international law in resolving conflicts.
The unfolding narrative around Zvartnos airport, Armenia's sovereignty, and the regional security architecture reflects the turbulent nature of international relations in our time. As discussions continue and decisions loom on the horizon, the world remains keenly interested in the steps nations like Armenia will take to secure their future, uphold their sovereignty, and contribute to a more stable and secure international order.
https://bnnbreaking.com/politics/armenian-parliament-speaker-calls-for-end-to-russian-border-guard-operations-at-zvartnos-airport
Scholz advocates for the swift resolution of the peace negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan
17:39,
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 17, ARMENPRESS. During the meeting with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev within the framework of the Munich Security Conference, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called on the parties to complete the peace negotiations as soon as possible, the German Government said in a statement.
"During the tripartite conversation, Scholz advocated for the swift resolution of the peace negotiations between the two countries. Germany and Europe are ready to support it within their capabilities, including the efforts of European Council President Charles Michel ," the message said.
It is noted that the Chancellor highly appreciated the commitment expressed by both sides on February 17 to resolve disagreements and open issues exclusively peacefully and without the use of violence.
Any territorial changes are unacceptable for Iran: Ambassador on the “Zangezur Corridor”
21:11,
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 16, ARMENPRESS. In response to the question of whether Iran's position regarding the "Zangezur Corridor" has changed, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Mehdi Sobhani of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Republic of Armenia stated that the official position of the Islamic Republic of Iran is that the territorial integrity of regional countries should be respected.
“The final position of the Islamic Republic of Iran is that we cannot accept a territorial change in any way. Any territorial changes should take place on the basis of mutual recognition of the territorial integrity of both countries, and this remains our final position. The final position of the Islamic Republic of Iran is that the territorial integrity of the countries of the region should be respected," the Ambassador emphasized.
According to the diplomat, it is unacceptable for Iran to see a tense situation around Armenia.
"We support all parties in establishing warm and peaceful relations as soon as possible. We are confident and believe that the only way is to have peaceful relations and friendly dialogue. And we have relations and dialogue with all the parties to facilitate peace in the region," said the Ambassador.
Strategy of the Azerbaijani government aimed at deepening enmity in the region: PM receives UK parliamentary delegation
20:01,
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 13, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan received the delegation led by Sir John Whittingdale, a member of the House of Commons of the Parliament of the United Kingdom.
The Prime Minister welcomed the UK parliamentarians' visit to Armenia and referred to the Azerbaijani-initiated escalation on the Armenia-Azerbaijan border, the Prime Minister's Office said in a readout.
"Mr. Whittingdale, I welcome you and your delegation to our country. Unfortunately, your visit coincided with a new escalation on the border with Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan initiated a new provocation, as a result of which four Armenian soldiers were killed. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated action, we continuously see a series of Azerbaijani provocations. According to our assessment, this is Azerbaijan's policy aimed at disrupting the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan by all possible means. This is also evidenced by the aggressive rhetoric of the official representatives of Azerbaijan, spiced with explicit territorial claims against Armenia.
Obviously, the strategy of the Azerbaijani government is aimed at deepening enmity in our region, which is a very disturbing fact.
But despite all these facts, our government is devoted to the peace process, because our belief is that the peace process has no alternative. Of course, we should do everything to achieve concrete results in the peace process, and we are doing it. But unfortunately, it is not possible to do this without the political will of the other side. And today's incident that claimed the lives of four soldiers testifies not only to the lack of political will for peace, but also to Azerbaijan's intentions to deepen the enmity and military escalation.
This is evidenced by the events that took place yesterday and today. The Azerbaijani press published information yesterday evening, according to which, in the area of today's incident, an Armenian border guard opened fire in the direction of the Azerbaijani positions. Immediately after that, the Military Police of Armenia announced that an investigation was initiated on the basis of this information, because there is a very strict order from the Ministry of Defense of Armenia not to provoke any escalation, not to give in to provocations.
And that was a very clear message from Armenia, and the press release of the Military Police clearly stated that if that fact is proven, it would mean a violation of the order, resulting in legal consequences. But despite that, early this morning, Azerbaijan started a local but large-scale attack with the use of drones, and as I mentioned, unfortunately four servicemen were killed.
The issue is not even in the incident about which the Azerbaijani media talked last night, because we have a very long and complicated border and if someone is looking for an excuse to escalate, to abort the peace process, they will always find it, even if it is in the form of media publications. Unfortunately, we continuously see this practice from the Azerbaijani side," Prime Minister Pashinyan said.
Referring to the relations between Armenia and the United Kingdom, the Prime Minister noted with satisfaction that there has been a new dynamic in bilateral relations in recent years. Nikol Pashinyan expressed hope that this dynamic will not only continue, but will rise to a new level of relations.
Sir John Whittingdale expressed his condolences and support to the families of those killed as a result of Azerbaijan's military operation and to the Armenian people. At the same time, he expressed concern about the military operations and emphasized the need to implement steps aimed at strengthening peace and stability.
The interlocutors discussed a number of issues related to the Armenia-United Kingdom multilateral cooperation, strengthening of inter-parliamentary ties.
Reference was made to the democratic reforms implemented in Armenia, the steps taken by the Armenian government to fight corruption, and the issues related to the processes taking place in the Caucasus.
The UK parliamentarians also referred to the capabilities of the Armenian government in meeting the humanitarian needs of more than 100,000 forcibly displaced people from Nagorno Karabakh. Support from the international community was also highlighted.
Iran reports 50% tourism growth
15:42,
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. The number of tourists who visited Iran from March 2023 to February 2024 grew 50% compared to the previous year, TASS reported citing Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.
“This year we saw that the number of tourists who visited our country grew 50%,” President Raisi said at the 17th Tehran International Tourism and Related Industries Exhibition. “The country has restored the post-pandemic tourism gap and has created necessary conditions for tourists.”
Raisi said that Iran’s “cultural heritage and wonderful nature” is a great potential for the development of tourism. He further said that many visitors travel to Iran for medical tourism because of more affordable and effective options. On February 4, Iran unilaterally lifted visa requirements with 28 countries, including Belarus, Qatar, Mexico, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Japan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.
Armenian Teen Injured in Explosion Gets Medical Care with Help from Local Man
An Armenian teen, Nelson, who was injured during recent attacks in Artsakh received care in a Boston hospital with the help of Watertown’s Stepan Chiloyan and the Armenian American Medical Association. Chiloyan has started a crowdfunding campaign to raise money to help Nelson.
The following piece was provided by Chiloyan:
In a heartrending call to action, a GoFundMe campaign was launched on Feb. 11, 2024, to support Nelson, a 17-year-old survivor of a catastrophic explosion in Berkadzor, near Stepanakert, amidst the recent aggression and ethnic cleansing by Azerbaijan against the Armenian population of Artsakh. This tragedy, part of one of the most significant humanitarian crises in modern Armenian history, forcibly displaced over 100,000 people, including Nelson and his family.
The explosion on Sept. 25, 2023, claimed the lives of at least 220 people and resulted in over 300 injuries, leaving Nelson as the sole surviving male of his immediate family. Nelson sustained life-threatening injuries and spent two months in a hospital in Yerevan with severe wounds on his hands and face. Through the efforts of volunteer Stepan Chiloyan of Watertown and the Armenian American Medical Association (AAMA), Nelson was able to receive care at Shriners Hospital in Boston, where he continues his recovery.
“Nelson’s story is a stark reminder of the personal toll behind the headlines,” said Chiloyan, who also initiated the GoFundMe campaign. “After the loss of almost his entire family and his own severe injuries, we are calling on the global community to help Nelson and his family rebuild their lives.”
On Jan. 5, 2024, Nelson and his mother arrived at Shriners Hospital in Boston, where he underwent major surgery to reconstruct his hands and face. The campaign seeks to provide financial support for Nelson, his mother, his two sisters, and his aunts as they strive to heal and move forward after being forcibly displaced from their homeland.
“Your contribution embodies the spirit of giving and compassion, offering not just financial support but also a message of hope and solidarity to Nelson and his family during this incredibly difficult time,” Chiloyan added. “Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant difference.
The dedication and expertise of the care managers, nurses, and doctors at Shriners Hospital have been instrumental in Nelson’s recovery process. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Gennadiy Fuzaylov; Dr. Salpy Akaragian, President and Founder of the Armenian International Medical Fund (AIM Fund); and Dr. Hovig Chilitian, President of the Armenian American Medical Association (AAMA), for their vital roles in bringing Nelson to Shriners Hospital. This effort showcases the power of collaborative care and the commitment to providing the best possible support for those in need.
The campaign underscores the importance of humanity coming together to uplift those suffering in times of need. To support Nelson and his family, please visit the GoFundMe page and donate today: https://gofund.me/e9439aab.
https://www.watertownmanews.com/2024/02/12/armenian-teen-gets-medical-help-after-being-injured-in-explosion-with-help-from-local-man/
Germany extradites fraud fugitive to Armenia
16:48, 9 February 2024
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 9, ARMENPRESS. German authorities have approved an extradition request filed by the General Prosecution of Armenia and a fugitive suspected of embezzling over 28,000,000 drams has been handed over to Armenian authorities.
In a statement, the Armenian General Prosecution only released the initials of the fugitive M.M. The fugitive’s transfer to Yerevan was ensured by Armenian police officers.
Pashinyan: Armenia cannot rely on Russia, needs to consider other partners
Armenia's defense strategy cannot rely on Russia as it used to, and Yerevan needs to more closely examine security relations with the U.S., France, India, and other countries, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on Feb. 1, the Armenpress news agency reported.
The prime minister has previously said that Moscow has not proven to be a reliable security partner, as Russian "peacekeepers" failed to prevent Azerbaijan's offensive into the Nagorno-Karabakh region last September.
Baku formally dissolved the unrecognized ethnic Armenian republic in Nagorno-Karabakh on Jan. 1. Over 100,000 ethnic Armenians fled the region.
"Previously, 95-97% of our defense sector relations were with the Russian Federation. Now, it cannot be the same, for both objective and subjective reasons," Pashinyan told Armenian Public Radio when discussing Armenia's military reforms.
Yerevan should reassess the concept of its defense strategy and consider what role countries like the U.S., France, India, Iran, or Georgia play in it, the prime minister said.
The country must also decide whether to remain a member of the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), he added.
As the rift between Armenia and Russia widens, Yerevan has been looking further west for allies, securing military aid from France.
Armenia also refused to participate in a CSTO summit in Minsk on Nov. 23, 2023, attracting criticism from Belarusian and Russian leaders.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova criticized Yerevan's overtures to the West, warning Pashinyan against "trying to sit on two chairs."
Armenpress: PM chairs consultation on social-economic inclusion programs, housing issues of people forcibly displaced from Karabakh
21:50,
YEREVAN, JANUARY 31, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashiyan chaired a consultation, during which issues related to the progress of socio-economic inclusion programs and planned measures for people forcibly displaced from Nagorno Karabakh were discussed, the PM's Office said in a readout.
Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Khachatryan, who coordinates the work of the "Humanitarian Center" of the government, reported that 4.4 billion AMD were allocated through regional administrations for the purpose of food security for the forcibly displaced persons located in regions. 112,000 people benefitted from the one-time support of 100,000 AMD. "Later, we defined the support program for rent and utility expenses, by which we supported those who have an apartment in the amount of 10,000 AMD, and those who do not have an apartment – 40+10 thousand AMD. This messure is for 6 months, of which 3 months have already passed. This will continue until March inclusive," said Tigran Khachatryan.
According to the Deputy Prime Minister, 17,000 forcibly displaced students have been admitted to public schools, a scholarship support program is being implemented for 4,000 students in secondary professional or higher educational institutions. This number will increase in the near future.
"We have 69,000 people who are registered in the primary healthcare sector. This is also a channel through which they are able to use hospital services within the framework of the state order. As of today, we have about 7,000 cases in which people also used state-ordered hospital services. We have 20 thousand 656 applications for pensioners or allowance receivers, the pensions of 11 thousand 800 are already being paid. Let me remind you that we have made the payments for all the months following October, simply because the applications are based on registration, the person must be registered and submit an application. This is a process that will continue until everyone is fully integrated into the system. We also have 2408 applicants who applied for allowances, 585 of them actually received their allowances.
In the field of employment, 212 teachers were sent to regions within the framework of our support program, 202 medical workers found work in various institutions. In total, 725 people applied to participate in professional training programs, and we provided an opportunity for legal entities to be re-registered to ensure the continuity of their activities and to be able to smoothly continue their economic activities," said the Deputy Prime Minister. It was also noted that as of the end of December 2023, according to the data of the State Revenue Committee, 10,000 forcibly displaced people were registered as paid workers.
Next, the housing problems of people forcibly displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh and the possibilities of their solution were addressed, taking into account the issue of balanced territorial development. In this context, the participants of the consultation exchanged ideas on possible support tools, various observations and recommendations were presented.
Prime Minister Pashinyan emphasized the importance of the harmonization of social programs and instructed those responsible to continue discussions on the presented ideas and proposals.