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On March 15, the Chair of the Standing Committee on Protection of Human Rights and Public Affairs, Taguhi Tovmasyan hosted the delegation of His Excellency Mr. John Gallagher, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to Armenia, in parliament.

The MP extended her thanks to the Ambassador for directly criticizing the actions of Azerbaijan by the representatives of the Parliament of the United Kingdom, mentioning the ethnic cleansing of Armenians by Azerbaijan, the continuation of the genocide. At the same time, she has warned that the accumulation of Azerbaijani armed forces and heavy military equipment is noticeable on the borders of Armenia and Artsakh, a serious danger and threat of war exist. In addition, Azerbaijan, questioning the authority of the main judicial body of the United Nations, does not obey the order of the International Court of Justice and continues to keep the Lachin Corridor closed, as a result of which the humanitarian situation in Artsakh remains dire.

“I really understand the price of peace very well. The territories where I spent my childhood are now occupied by the enemy, 120,000 of our besieged compatriots of Artsakh are in dire conditions of a humanitarian disaster. The more we talk about peace, the more aggression by Azerbaijan we face,” Taguhi Tovmasyan underscored in her words.

In response, the Ambassador noted that he understands the complexity of the situation and the seriousness of humanitarian problems, and stated that the United Kingdom supports international efforts for a stable and peaceful settlement of the conflict, emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue and trust mechanisms.

The Ambassador added that the United Kingdom mentioned in the talks with Azerbaijan that the Lachin Corridor should be opened. He also expressed hope that as a result of the dialogue there will be a real change in the situation.

John Gallagher highlighted the Committee's work in areas of key importance to the United Kingdom, including from the point of view of issues related to women's rights.

The Chair of the Standing Committee on Protection of Human Rights and Public Affairs Taguhi Tovmasyan also discussed with the delegation matters related to democracy in Armenia.