On June 25, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia Robert Abisoghomonyan participated and delivered remarks at the OSCE Annual Security Review Conference. 

In his remarks, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia specifically noted:

“Distinguished Chair, Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

At the outset, I would like to thank the Finnish Chairpersonship for the opportunity to address this special session of the Annual Security Review Conference.

This meeting takes place against the backdrop of unprecedented and deeply alarming deterioration of the global security architecture, including in the OSCE region. The ongoing crises and conflicts, coupled with persistent violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, are eroding the core principles upon which the post-World War II and post-Cold War security architecture has been founded. It won’t be an exaggeration to state that year after year the world has been gradually approaching the point of no return. But luckily, we have not reached that critical threshold yet, even if a little time remains to reflect and take the right decision.

Dear colleagues,

This year, we mark the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act. The Decalogue, with its core principles of respect for territorial integrity, sovereign equality, the inviolability of frontiers, the non-use of force, and the peaceful settlement of disputes, constitutes the framework of our common commitments guiding the imperfect, yet politically binding conduct of inter-state relations. However, today, these foundational principles face systematic and deliberate disregard. This consensus-based framework, developed over decades, is being challenged on multiple fronts. In this context, it is imperative that we recommit to the principles and instruments that underpin our collective security.

Excellencies,

As the ASRC provides a valuable opportunity to assess participating States' efforts in the politico-military dimension of the OSCE, particular attention should be given to the state of the arms control architecture. Armenia continues to firmly believe that a functioning and credible arms control framework remains essential for ensuring regional stability, building mutual trust, and preventing escalation.

For decades, Armenia has demonstrated full compliance with arms control regimes, including the CFE treaty and the Vienna Document. However, the integrity of the Conventional Arms Control Regime in our region has been seriously undermined due to systemic and massive violations of its core provisions, which in combination with the failure of international community to identify the early warning signs of such violations and enact preventive measures for imminent escalation, has turned these mechanisms into a convenient smokescreen for the use of force.

Nevertheless, Armenia, remaining faithful to the establishment of peace and stability in the region, as well as building trust and confidence among neighbours, submitted a written proposal to Azerbaijan aimed at establishing a bilateral mechanism for mutual arms control. We are convinced that through bilateral arrangements we can promote transparency, build confidence, and reduce the risk of threat perceptions.

In addition, Armenia has put forward the idea of establishing a joint mechanism for impartial investigation of alleged ceasefire violations along the Armenia-Azerbaijan interstate border, further underscoring its commitment to dialogue and de-escalation. We continue to believe that such mechanisms are essential for fostering trust and stability in the region, and we reiterate our readiness to engage in meaningful dialogue on these critical matters.

Mr. Chairperson,

While the world is experiencing a sharp increase in conflicts and is navigating one of the most turbulent periods in modern history, Armenia remains unwavering in its commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace in the South Caucasus, which has long been recognized as one of the most fragile regions within the OSCE area of responsibility.

Of course, we are under no illusion that peace can be easily achieved. For Armenia, the path to regional peace is defined by a clear and rational formula: the normalization of relations with Azerbaijan, based on the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and inviolability of internationally recognized borders. This formula offers our region a real chance to break the cycle of hostility and chart a more stable and cooperative future.

Following over three years of intensive negotiations, a significant milestone was reached in March of this year, when Armenia and Azerbaijan agreed upon the text of the draft agreement on peace and the establishment of interstate relations. The finalization of this agreement constitutes a real breakthrough - one that presents an unprecedented opportunity to move beyond the legacy of conflict and to institutionalize peace based on mutual recognition and respect for each other’s territorial integrity. In this regard, the position of the Armenian side is unequivocal: we must not allow this historic momentum to slip away. That is why Armenia has proposed consultations aimed at determining the appropriate time and place for the signing of the agreement and despite all difficulties continues its efforts to this end. 

However, as with any bilateral peace agreement, its success depends on the genuine commitment of both parties. A signature, after all, is not a mere formality; it is the materialization of political will, and the foundation of legal and moral obligation. Regrettably, since the finalization of the draft agreement, Azerbaijan has introduced artificial preconditions: one concerning the dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Process structures, and another concerning alleged territorial claims contained in the Armenian Constitution. 

There is little need to restate Armenia’s well-known position on these matters. We have addressed them in detail and with full transparency, including in this very forum, particularly during the Special Permanent Council meeting convened in March of this year at our request.

We believe that the signing of the peace agreement is the shortest way to answer all questions, address all related concerns and possible obstacles. It represents the first and most essential step toward transforming confrontation into cooperation.

Moreover, Armenia is confident that unblocking of all trade and transport communications in the South Caucasus with full respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, national jurisdiction and based on the principles of equality and reciprocity will make full use of untapped potential of the region and will open up immense opportunities for prosperity in the South Caucasus and beyond. It will also largely contribute to peace, stability and sustainable development of the region. In this regard, the "Crossroads of Peace" initiative of the Government of Armenia has the potential to become a platform for regional cooperation and serve as an important confidence building measure, capable of significantly contributing to lasting peace efforts.

Dear colleagues,

The genuine commitment to dialogue and good faith engagement are key foundations for building peace. In this regard, it is disturbing that we continue hearing high-level public statements containing open threats and pertaining territorial claims against the sovereign territory of the Republic of Armenia, including through the so-called "Western Azerbaijan" narrative. Unfortunately, the OSCE platforms have also been abused for dissemination of this narrative. We strongly believe that all efforts, including those from both Governments, should be aimed at directing and encouraging their societies to focus on establishing lasting peace and fostering good-neighborly relations.

Armenia’s commitment to peace and stability in the region is further demonstrated by the steps that our country has taken in the normalization process with Türkiye. In this context, I would like to highlight the recent visit of the Prime Minister of Armenia to Türkiye, during which the parties reaffirmed their willingness to continue a constructive dialogue and emphasized the importance of achieving concrete outcomes. We are convinced that the normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations would not only constitute a meaningful bilateral breakthrough but would also contribute positively to the broader regional peace agenda.

In conclusion, let me reaffirm our belief that peace is not only a moral imperative, but a strategic necessity. The OSCE and its participating States must remain steadfast in supporting processes that opt for dialogue over division and cooperation over conflict. Armenia stands ready to contribute constructively to that vision.

I thank you.”