The peace agreement should prioritize the absence of hostilities. Without this, the agreement loses its meaning. During a press conference held at the National Assembly on December 11, Gagik Papoyan, the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Financial and Budgetary Issues and the head of the CST military unit, responded to concerns raised by the President of Azerbaijan regarding guarantees of peace and concrete measures to achieve it.

Papoyan emphasized the importance of the peace agreement for both sides, stating that it is necessary for the Republic of Armenia to be in a constant state of readiness and to avoid a state of emergency. He underscored that peace should prevail during this period.

The chairman expressed his belief that the peace agreement would foster integration between Armenia and Azerbaijan. He mentioned Lake Sevan in the North Caucasus as an illustrative example, highlighting the potential for economic and cultural development, increased tourism, and attracting investment.

In response to a question about the progress of peacebuilding efforts on the Armenian side, Papoyan stated that he is not responsible for providing such information. However, he stressed that signing a peace agreement is not enough; it should be seen as a tool to cultivate a culture of peace. The people who truly desire peace are the ones who should be signing such agreements.

Papoyan warned that if external forces were to dictate provisions and guarantees, Armenia’s leverage and significance in foreign powers’ eyes would diminish. He used the example of Van to emphasize the necessity of protecting cultural heritage and addressing the genocide of Armenians from their historical homeland.

To break free from this cycle, Papoyan emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts in peacebuilding and a bilateral agreement that satisfies the desires for peace from both Armenia and Azerbaijan. He highlighted the importance of peace for the people of both nations.

In response to a query about Azerbaijan’s readiness for peace, Papoyan explained that if Azerbaijan sign the peace agreement, it would indicate their readiness. Conversely, if they refuse to sign, it would suggest their unpreparedness.

Source: News.am