Mirzoyan reaffirms commitment to reconciliation amid lingering humanitarian concerns

(Horizon Weekly / GENEVA) — Addressing the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan described reconciliation with Azerbaijan as a difficult and complex undertaking, pointing to the continued detention of 19 Armenians in Baku, unresolved cases of missing persons and enforced disappearances, and distorted historical narratives.

Mirzoyan stated that despite these unresolved humanitarian issues, Armenia remains firmly committed to advancing the peace agenda. He argued that the further institutionalization of peace would create more favourable conditions for addressing the lasting consequences of the conflict.

Referring to last year’s peace summit in Washington, the Foreign Minister said the meeting not only formalized peace between the two countries but also laid the groundwork for expanded trade, connectivity, and people-to-people engagement. However, questions remain regarding how fully such initiatives have materialized on the ground, particularly in light of ongoing tensions and unresolved humanitarian cases.

Mirzoyan also emphasized that reconciliation must extend beyond intergovernmental agreements, highlighting efforts to foster dialogue and rebuild trust between societies, including among conflict-affected populations. Yet with the fate of detainees and former Artsakh officials still a source of controversy, and with Azerbaijani courts sentencing several to lengthy prison terms, including life imprisonment, it is unclear whether the broader political and humanitarian environment is conducive to genuine reconciliation.

While Armenia has publicly committed to what Mirzoyan described as the “difficult path” of reconciliation, the durability and depth of that process may ultimately depend on tangible progress in resolving outstanding humanitarian and political disputes.