Canada urges further Armenian hostage releases after return of four detainees
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(Horizon Weekly/Ottawa) – In an official reaction to the January 14 release of four Armenian hostages by Azerbaijani authorities, the Government of Canada welcomed the development as a positive step toward a “just and durable peace” in the South Caucasus. Although brief, the statement from Global Affairs Canada underscored Ottawa’s continued call for additional confidence-building measures, including further prisoner releases as part of a broader peace process.
“We look forward to continued confidence-building measures, including additional prisoner releases, as Azerbaijan and Armenia advance towards mutual peace and prosperity,” the statement read, reflecting Canada’s emphasis on both humanitarian and diplomatic progress.
While Armenia welcomed the return of Gevorg Sujyan, Davit Davtyan, Vigen Euljekjian and Vagif Khachatryan, at least 19 Armenian detainees are still reported to remain in Azerbaijani custody, according to local sources.
Canada’s brief but pointed response stands out amid generally sparse international reactions. Ottawa has consistently been among the few Western capitals to speak out on this issue, maintaining a dual focus on securing peace while insisting that outstanding issues between Armenia and Azerbaijan must be fully addressed. Canada’s position in recent months has emphasized that peace must go hand in hand with justice, human rights and the resolution of core disputes, including the fate of hostages and detainees, the safe return of displaced civilians, and the protection of cultural heritage.
In an earlier statement on August 10, 2025, Global Affairs Canada reiterated this comprehensive vision for peace after Armenia and Azerbaijan initialled a broader peace framework. Ottawa stressed the need for a negotiated political solution aligned with international principles, including respect for territorial integrity, non-use of force, and the right to self-determination.
Canadian officials have repeatedly framed their approach to the South Caucasus around confidence-building and the rule of law, signalling Ottawa’s long-standing advocacy for both peace and justice in the region. Though concise, Canada’s reaction to the recent release of hostages reinforces this message at a moment when broader international engagement has been limited.
